2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1988 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,423 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (230 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 774 kg more than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 223 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1988 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Chrysler | Reliant |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2423 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1620 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2140 mm |
