1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1983 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 20 kg more than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 1983 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse. (177 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1983 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1983 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Reliant |
| Model | Eclipse | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
