1996 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,747 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Fiat Barchetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Fiat Barchetta weights approximately 220 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 1996 Fiat Barchetta (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Fiat Barchetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Barchetta | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Fiat | Reliant |
| Model | Barchetta | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2140 mm |
