1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP) has 58 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 450 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Fiesta | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 133 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
