2006 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar

To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt (145 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt weights approximately 485 kg more than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 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 1978 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 1978 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. (211 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt. 1978 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet Cobalt will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Chevrolet Cobalt 1978 Reliant Scimitar
Make Chevrolet Reliant
Model Cobalt Scimitar
Year Released 2006 1978
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2196 cc 2993 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 145 HP 135 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 211 Nm 236 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86 mm 93.7 mm
Engine Stroke Size 94 mm 72.4 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1750 kg 1265 kg
Vehicle Length 4590 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2640 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 49 L 27 L