2009 Dodge Nitro vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Dodge Nitro 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 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 426 kg more than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Nitro will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Nitro (410 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 174 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Nitro | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Dodge | Reliant |
| Model | Nitro | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 410 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 182 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1691 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 27 L |
