2008 Kia Rio vs. 1983 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Kia Rio is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Rio (139 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 201 kg more than 2008 Kia Rio.
Because 1983 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 1983 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Kia Rio, 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, 1983 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Rio. (125 Nm @ 6500 RPM). This means 1983 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Rio.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Rio | 1983 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Kia | Reliant |
| Model | Rio | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.1 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1064 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 91 L |
