2009 Ford Fiesta vs. 1996 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Ford Fiesta is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,560 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Fiesta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Reliant Scimitar (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2009 Ford Fiesta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 129 kg more than 1996 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1996 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 1996 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Fiesta, 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 Ford Fiesta (204 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Fiesta | 1996 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Fiesta | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1022 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2140 mm |
