2009 Ford Focus vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (222 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 127 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 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 @ 1600 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. 1986 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Focus | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2522 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 27 L |
