2009 Kia Magentis vs. 1983 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Kia Magentis is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Magentis (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Magentis should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Magentis weights approximately 265 kg more than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Magentis, 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 Kia Magentis (247 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Magentis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. 2009 Kia Magentis has automatic transmission and 1983 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1983 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Magentis will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Magentis | 1983 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Kia | Reliant |
| Model | Magentis | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2655 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 247 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2640 mm |
