2003 Lexus IS vs. 1973 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Lexus IS is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Lexus IS (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Lexus IS weights approximately 346 kg more than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 2003 Lexus IS (296 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. 2003 Lexus IS has automatic transmission and 1973 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1973 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Lexus IS | 1973 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Lexus | Reliant |
| Model | IS | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2997 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 296 Nm | 266 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2540 mm |
