1997 BMW M3 vs. 1979 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1997 BMW M3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW M3 (240 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. (136 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW M3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, both vehicles can yield 236 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW M3 | 1979 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | BMW | Reliant |
| Model | M3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
