2008 Honda Civic vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Honda Civic (140 HP @ 4300 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 155 kg more than 2008 Honda Civic.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Honda Civic, 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, 1981 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Civic. (152 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Civic. 1981 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2008 Honda Civic has manual transmission. 2008 Honda Civic will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Honda Civic | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Honda | Reliant |
| Model | Civic | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 2790 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4940 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2640 mm |
