1997 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1997 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (95 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1997 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 373 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1985 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata, 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, both vehicles can yield 132 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 Hyundai Sonata | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Hyundai | Reliant |
| Model | Sonata | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2140 mm |
