2009 Honda Element vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Honda Element is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Honda Element (167 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Honda Element weights approximately 685 kg more than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Honda Element is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Honda Element will offer significantly more control. 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 Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. 2009 Honda Element has automatic transmission and 1981 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1981 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Honda Element will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Honda Element | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Honda | Reliant |
| Model | Element | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 167 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |
