1999 Kia Elan vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1999 Kia Elan is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Kia Elan (149 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 197 kg more than 1999 Kia Elan.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Kia Elan, 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, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Kia Elan. (186 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Kia Elan.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Kia Elan | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
Make | Kia | Reliant |
Model | Elan | Scimitar |
Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1793 cc | 2792 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 149 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 207 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1068 kg | 1265 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |