1996 Fiat Scudo vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Fiat Scudo is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Fiat Scudo. (78 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat Scudo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 230 kg more than 1996 Fiat Scudo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Fiat Scudo, 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, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat Scudo. (125 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat Scudo. 1981 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1996 Fiat Scudo has manual transmission. 1996 Fiat Scudo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat Scudo | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Fiat | Reliant |
| Model | Scudo | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Van | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1579 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1035 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
