1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1997 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1997 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 427 kg more than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1997 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Reliant |
| Model | Eclipse | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2140 mm |
