2001 Kia Rio vs. 1987 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2001 Kia Rio is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,342 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Kia Rio (74 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Kia Rio weights approximately 85 kg more than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Kia Rio, 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 Kia Rio (121 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Kia Rio | 1987 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Kia | Reliant |
| Model | Rio | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1342 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 121 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 925 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2140 mm |
