1989 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Smart ForFour (94 HP) has 19 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForFour should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Smart ForFour weights approximately 130 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Smart ForFour, 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, 2001 Smart ForFour (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Smart ForFour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. 2001 Smart ForFour has automatic transmission and 1989 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1989 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Reliant Scimitar | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Reliant | Smart |
| Model | Scimitar | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2510 mm |
