2001 Fiat Barchetta vs. 1973 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2001 Fiat Barchetta is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Fiat Barchetta (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Fiat Barchetta should accelerate faster than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 132 kg more than 2001 Fiat Barchetta.
Because 1973 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 1973 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Fiat Barchetta, 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, 1973 Reliant Scimitar (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Fiat Barchetta. (164 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1973 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Fiat Barchetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Fiat Barchetta | 1973 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Fiat | Reliant |
| Model | Barchetta | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 266 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1062 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2280 mm | 2540 mm |
