2009 Ford S-Max vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Ford S-Max is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2009 Ford S-Max. (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford S-Max. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford S-Max weights approximately 478 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1985 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford S-Max, 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 S-Max (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford S-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. 1985 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford S-Max has manual transmission. 2009 Ford S-Max will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford S-Max | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | S-Max | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1743 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 91 L |
