2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1984 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 15 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 1984 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (146 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1984 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. 1984 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 has manual transmission. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1984 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Reliant |
| Model | 156 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.7 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 27 L |
