1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass (150 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 139 kg more than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass, 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 Oldsmobile Cutlass (249 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Oldsmobile Cutlass | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Oldsmobile | Reliant |
| Model | Cutlass | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3135 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1404 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2640 mm |
