1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Ford Fiesta is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 347 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 1985 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 1985 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, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (138 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1985 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 1985 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1989 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1989 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Fiesta | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 138 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 918 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 91 L |
