2004 Scion tC vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2004 Scion tC is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Scion tC (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Scion tC weights approximately 20 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Scion tC, 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 Scion tC (221 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. 1985 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2004 Scion tC has manual transmission. 2004 Scion tC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Scion tC | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Scion | Reliant |
| Model | tC | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2362 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
