2009 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 30 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 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Reliant Scimitar (136 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 157 kg more than 1979 Reliant Scimitar.
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, 2009 Ford Focus, 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 Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1979 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Focus | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 27 L |
