2009 Chevrolet Cobalt vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (260 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 4 kg more than 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt.
Because 1978 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 1978 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt, 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, 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt (353 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Cobalt | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Reliant |
| Model | Cobalt | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1261 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 27 L |
