1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1996 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 1 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Reliant Scimitar (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (57 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1997 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 297 kg more than 1996 Reliant Scimitar.
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, 1997 Citroen Xsara, 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 Reliant Scimitar (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Citroen Xsara. (117 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1996 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | Xsara | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 117 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2140 mm |
