1996 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 3,800 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (265 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 814 kg more than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse (355 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 228 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Reliant Scimitar | 2012 Mitsubishi Eclipse | |
| Make | Reliant | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Scimitar | Eclipse |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 3800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 265 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 893 kg | 1707 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1834 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1374 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2576 mm |
