1996 Citroen Saxo vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Citroen Saxo is newer by 16 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 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1996 Citroen Saxo. (55 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1996 Citroen Saxo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 375 kg more than 1996 Citroen Saxo. 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, 1996 Citroen Saxo, 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 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Citroen Saxo. (95 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1980 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Citroen Saxo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Citroen Saxo | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | Saxo | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1527 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 55 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 95 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3730 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2390 mm | 2640 mm |
