2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1976 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1976 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1976 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 421 kg more than 1976 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata, 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 Sonata (305 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1976 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Hyundai | Reliant |
| Model | Sonata | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1976 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1686 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 27 L |
