1989 Citroen XM vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Citroen XM is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Citroen XM (141 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Citroen XM weights approximately 235 kg more than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Reliant Scimitar is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1978 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Citroen XM, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1978 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Citroen XM. (225 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Citroen XM.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Citroen XM | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | XM | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1905 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 202 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 27 L |
