1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass (159 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 145 kg more than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. (203 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1980 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass. 1980 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass has manual transmission. 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Reliant |
| Model | Cutlass | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 159 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4930 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2640 mm |
