2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1996 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,348 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse (145 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 397 kg more than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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 Mitsubishi Eclipse (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1996 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Reliant |
| Model | Eclipse | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2348 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2140 mm |
