1997 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2005 Kia Rio
To start off, 2005 Kia Rio is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2005 Kia Rio. (96 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Rio weights approximately 265 kg more than 1997 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1997 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 1997 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Rio, 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, 2005 Kia Rio (132 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Reliant Scimitar | 2005 Kia Rio | |
| Make | Reliant | Kia |
| Model | Scimitar | Rio |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 893 kg | 1158 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2420 mm |
