1999 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1979 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Reliant Scimitar (136 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 50 kg more than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1979 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1979 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1979 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Reliant |
| Model | Cavalier | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1215 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 27 L |
