1999 Mercury Tracer vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1999 Mercury Tracer 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. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercury Tracer weights approximately 469 kg more than 1981 Reliant Scimitar.
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 Mercury Tracer, 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) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercury Tracer. (170 Nm). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercury Tracer.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercury Tracer | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mercury | Reliant |
| Model | Tracer | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1734 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2640 mm |
