1997 Ford Contour vs. 1975 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1975 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1975 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 48 kg more than 1975 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour, 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, 1975 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1975 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1975 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1975 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 1975 Reliant Scimitar | |
Make | Ford | Reliant |
Model | Contour | Scimitar |
Year Released | 1997 | 1975 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 236 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1266 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |