2009 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1989 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Elantra 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Elantra (104 HP) has 29 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 366 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 Hyundai Elantra, 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 Hyundai Elantra (143 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Hyundai Elantra | 1989 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Hyundai | Reliant |
| Model | Elantra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 87 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1206 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2140 mm |
