2008 Nissan Maxima vs. 1979 Reliant Scimitar

To start off, 2008 Nissan Maxima is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Nissan Maxima (255 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. (136 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 309 kg more than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 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 1979 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Nissan Maxima, 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 Nissan Maxima (342 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Reliant Scimitar.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Nissan Maxima 1979 Reliant Scimitar
Make Nissan Reliant
Model Maxima Scimitar
Year Released 2008 1979
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3505 cc 2994 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 255 HP 136 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 342 Nm 236 Nm
Torque RPM 4400 RPM 3000 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1574 kg 1265 kg
Vehicle Length 4940 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1830 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2830 mm 2640 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 76 L 27 L