2005 Proton 400 vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2005 Proton 400 is newer by 20 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 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (95 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2005 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2005 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Proton 400 weights approximately 103 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
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, 2005 Proton 400, 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, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Proton 400 | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Proton | Reliant |
| Model | 400 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2140 mm |
