2009 Honda Civic vs. 1989 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Honda Civic is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,686 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Honda Civic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Civic (99 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Civic weights approximately 621 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Civic, 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 Honda Civic (220 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Civic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Civic | 1989 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Honda | Reliant |
| Model | Civic | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1686 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1461 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2140 mm |
