2008 Fiat 500 vs. 1996 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Fiat 500 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Reliant Scimitar (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2008 Fiat 500. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2008 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 28 kg more than 2008 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Fiat 500, 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, 1996 Reliant Scimitar (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Fiat 500. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Fiat 500 | 1996 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Fiat | Reliant |
| Model | 500 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 865 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3550 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2140 mm |
