1998 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1978 Renault 14
To start off, 1998 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 14. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 14 would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1978 Renault 14. (57 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 14. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 23 kg more than 1978 Renault 14. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Renault 14, 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 Reliant Scimitar (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 14. (92 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 14.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Reliant Scimitar | 1978 Renault 14 | |
| Make | Reliant | Renault |
| Model | Scimitar | 14 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1218 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 893 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2410 mm |
