2004 Ford Focus vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 135 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 91 kg more than 1981 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Focus | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2640 mm |
