2001 MG ZT vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2001 MG ZT is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 MG ZT (187 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 MG ZT weights approximately 310 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 MG ZT, 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 MG ZT (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 MG ZT | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | MG | Reliant |
| Model | ZT | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 27 L |
