1998 Citroen Xsara vs. 1987 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1998 Citroen Xsara is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,585 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Citroen Xsara (89 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 260 kg more than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Citroen Xsara, 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 Citroen Xsara (137 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. 1998 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1987 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1987 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Citroen Xsara | 1987 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | Xsara | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1100 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2140 mm |
