2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1987 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Citroen Xsara (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 451 kg more than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara, 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 Citroen Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen Xsara | 1987 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | Xsara | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1291 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2140 mm |
