2005 Kia Rio vs. 1998 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2005 Kia Rio is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2005 Kia Rio. (82 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2005 Kia Rio. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Kia Rio weights approximately 122 kg more than 1998 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1998 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 1998 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Kia Rio, 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, 1998 Reliant Scimitar (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Kia Rio. (120 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Rio | 1998 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Kia | Reliant |
| Model | Rio | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1342 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 82 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1015 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2140 mm |
