2003 Citroen C3 vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Citroen C3 is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,587 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Citroen C3 (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Citroen C3 weights approximately 539 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Citroen C3, 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, 2003 Citroen C3 (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. 2003 Citroen C3 has automatic transmission and 1985 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1985 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Citroen C3 | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | C3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1379 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2140 mm |
