2001 Proton 400 vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2001 Proton 400 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 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2001 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2001 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Proton 400 weights approximately 130 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
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 Proton 400, 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, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Proton 400 | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Proton | Reliant |
| Model | 400 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 970 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2140 mm |
