2001 Citroen Xsara vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2001 Citroen Xsara 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 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2001 Citroen Xsara. (106 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2001 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 52 kg more than 2001 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Citroen Xsara, 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, 2001 Citroen Xsara (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. 2001 Citroen Xsara has automatic transmission and 1980 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1980 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Citroen Xsara will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Citroen Xsara | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | Xsara | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1248 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2640 mm |
