2004 Nissan Altima vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2004 Nissan Altima 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 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Nissan Altima (170 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Nissan Altima weights approximately 109 kg more than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (237 Nm) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm). This means 2004 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Nissan Altima | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Nissan | Reliant |
| Model | Altima | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2491 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 237 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1409 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2640 mm |
