1998 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (149 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 86 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 1998 Chevrolet Malibu (210 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Chevrolet Malibu | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Reliant |
| Model | Malibu | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2392 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4840 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2640 mm |
