1998 Citroen Xantia vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xantia is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1998 Citroen Xantia. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1998 Citroen Xantia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 130 kg more than 1998 Citroen Xantia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xantia, 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, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Citroen Xantia. (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Citroen Xantia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xantia | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | Xantia | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 133 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
