2008 Cadillac XLR vs. 1984 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Cadillac XLR is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 4,371 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac XLR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac XLR (444 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 309 more horse power than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR should accelerate faster than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac XLR weights approximately 295 kg more than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac XLR, 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 Cadillac XLR (561 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac XLR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. 2008 Cadillac XLR has automatic transmission and 1984 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1984 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Cadillac XLR will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Cadillac XLR | 1984 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Cadillac | Reliant |
| Model | XLR | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4371 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 444 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 561 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 91 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 27 L |
