2006 Saturn ION vs. 1977 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2006 Saturn ION is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Saturn ION (140 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1977 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION should accelerate faster than 1977 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Saturn ION weights approximately 185 kg more than 1977 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Saturn ION, 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, 1977 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Saturn ION. (197 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1977 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Saturn ION.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Saturn ION | 1977 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Saturn | Reliant |
| Model | ION | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 27 L |
