1996 Ford Escort vs. 1983 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Ford Escort is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Ford Escort. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1983 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 130 kg more than 1996 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort, 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, 1983 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Escort. (114 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 1983 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Escort. 1983 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Escort has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Escort will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1983 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 1983 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Escort | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
