1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1970 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1970 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1970 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 170 kg more than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Because 1970 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 1970 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 1970 Reliant Scimitar (267 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Lotus Elan. (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1970 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Lotus Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Lotus Elan | 1970 Reliant Scimitar | |
Make | Lotus | Reliant |
Model | Elan | Scimitar |
Year Released | 1989 | 1970 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 123 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4750 RPM |
Torque | 201 Nm | 267 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1190 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4350 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2540 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 23 L |