2002 Ariel Atom vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2002 Ariel Atom is newer by 16 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, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2002 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2002 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 840 kg more than 2002 Ariel Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ariel Atom. (148 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ariel Atom. 1986 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2002 Ariel Atom has manual transmission. 2002 Ariel Atom will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ariel Atom | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ariel | Reliant |
| Model | Atom | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 460 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2640 mm |
