2002 Kia Optima vs. 1988 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2002 Kia Optima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,497 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Kia Optima (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Kia Optima weights approximately 586 kg more than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (216 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm). This means 2002 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Kia Optima | 1988 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Kia | Reliant |
| Model | Optima | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1432 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2140 mm |
