1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1984 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 280 kg more than 1996 Lotus Elan.
Because 1984 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 1984 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan, 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, 1984 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Lotus Elan. (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1984 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Lotus Elan. 1984 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1996 Lotus Elan has manual transmission. 1996 Lotus Elan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Lotus Elan | 1984 Reliant Scimitar | |
Make | Lotus | Reliant |
Model | Elan | Scimitar |
Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 163 HP | 133 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 204 Nm | 206 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |