2009 Citroen C5 vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Citroen C5 is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Citroen C5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Citroen C5 (204 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5 should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C5 weights approximately 290 kg more than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Citroen C5, 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 Citroen C5 (285 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Citroen C5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. 1980 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2009 Citroen C5 has manual transmission. 2009 Citroen C5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1980 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C5 | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | C5 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2946 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 204 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.6 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2640 mm |
