1998 Ford Focus vs. 1974 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1998 Ford Focus is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1974 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1974 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 54 kg more than 1974 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus, 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, 1974 Reliant Scimitar (267 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1974 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1974 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Focus | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 267 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2540 mm |
