2003 Fiat Idea vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Fiat Idea 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 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Fiat Idea. (78 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2003 Fiat Idea. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 142 kg more than 2003 Fiat Idea. 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 Fiat Idea, 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, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Fiat Idea. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Fiat Idea.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Fiat Idea | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Fiat | Reliant |
| Model | Idea | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 114 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.9 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1158 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2640 mm |
