2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 21 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 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 100 kg more than 1980 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (150 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1980 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Chrysler | Reliant |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
