2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (154 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 95 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 Dodge Caliber, 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, 1978 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Dodge Caliber. (190 Nm @ 5100 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Dodge Caliber.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Dodge | Reliant |
| Model | Caliber | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5100 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 27 L |
