2008 Dodge Caliber vs. 1989 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Dodge Caliber is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Caliber is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Caliber (148 HP) has 73 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Caliber should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Caliber weights approximately 520 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 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, 2008 Dodge Caliber (170 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Caliber will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Caliber | 1989 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Dodge | Reliant |
| Model | Caliber | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1360 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2140 mm |
