1998 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1980 Volvo 260
To start off, 1998 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Volvo 260. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Volvo 260 would be higher. At 2,383 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Volvo 260 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1980 Volvo 260. (81 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1980 Volvo 260. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Volvo 260 weights approximately 557 kg more than 1998 Reliant Scimitar.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1980 Volvo 260 (140 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 Volvo 260 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Reliant Scimitar | 1980 Volvo 260 | |
| Make | Reliant | Volvo |
| Model | Scimitar | 260 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2383 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 893 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2660 mm |
