1997 Ford Contour vs. 1995 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1995 Reliant Scimitar. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1995 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 349 kg more than 1995 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 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, 1997 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1995 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Contour | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2140 mm |
