2008 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 77 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Elantra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Elantra, 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 Hyundai Elantra (236 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Elantra | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Hyundai | Reliant |
| Model | Elantra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
