1999 Chrysler Viper vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1999 Chrysler Viper is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 7,986 cc (10 cylinders), 1999 Chrysler Viper is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chrysler Viper (389 HP @ 5150 RPM) has 256 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chrysler Viper should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chrysler Viper weights approximately 290 kg more than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 Chrysler Viper (620 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 414 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Chrysler Viper will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Chrysler Viper | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Chrysler | Reliant |
| Model | Viper | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 7986 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 10 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 389 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5150 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 620 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1590 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1130 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
