2002 Daihatsu Copen vs. 1989 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2002 Daihatsu Copen is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Reliant Scimitar (75 HP) has 13 more horse power than 2002 Daihatsu Copen. (62 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2002 Daihatsu Copen. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 10 kg more than 2002 Daihatsu Copen. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Daihatsu Copen, 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, 2002 Daihatsu Copen (110 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Daihatsu Copen will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Daihatsu Copen | 1989 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Daihatsu | Reliant |
| Model | Copen | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 659 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2140 mm |
