1995 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 1995 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Renault 12 weights approximately 57 kg more than 1995 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1995 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 1995 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1974 Renault 12, 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, 1995 Reliant Scimitar (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Reliant Scimitar | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Reliant | Renault |
| Model | Scimitar | 12 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 893 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2450 mm |
