2003 Ariel Atom vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Ariel Atom is newer by 17 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 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Ariel Atom. (109 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2003 Ariel Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 378 kg more than 2003 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 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 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 2003 Ariel Atom.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ariel Atom | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ariel | Reliant |
| Model | Atom | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 109 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 462 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 3880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1200 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2350 mm | 2140 mm |
