1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1971 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1971 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1971 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 536 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
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, 1971 Reliant Scimitar (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1971 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1971 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Caterham | Reliant |
| Model | C21 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2992 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 266 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2540 mm |
