2003 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1976 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 78 kg more than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1976 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier. (176 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1976 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1976 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Reliant |
| Model | Cavalier | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2189 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 176 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1187 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 27 L |
