2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse vs. 1988 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (210 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse should accelerate faster than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse weights approximately 649 kg more than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse, 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, 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse (278 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm). This means 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mitsubishi Eclipse | 1988 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Reliant |
| Model | Eclipse | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 278 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2140 mm |
