1996 Lotus Esprit vs. 1974 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Lotus Esprit is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Esprit (285 HP) has 162 more horse power than 1974 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1974 Reliant Scimitar.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lotus Esprit (510 Nm) has 243 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Reliant Scimitar. (267 Nm). This means 1996 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Lotus Esprit | 1974 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Lotus | Reliant |
| Model | Esprit | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 285 HP | 123 HP |
| Torque | 510 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2540 mm |
