2003 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Focus (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Focus weights approximately 267 kg more than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Ford Focus, 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 Ford Focus (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Focus | 1996 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Focus | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2140 mm |
