2008 Acura TL vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Acura TL is newer by 30 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 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura TL (286 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Acura TL weights approximately 9 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, 2008 Acura TL, 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, 2008 Acura TL (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. 2008 Acura TL has automatic transmission and 1978 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1978 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Acura TL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura TL | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Acura | Reliant |
| Model | TL | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 27 L |
