2008 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1997 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Elantra (111 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 295 kg more than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 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 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Elantra | 1997 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Hyundai | Reliant |
| Model | Elantra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1188 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2140 mm |
