2009 Kia Rio vs. 1984 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Kia Rio is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Rio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Rio (96 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio should accelerate faster than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Rio weights approximately 318 kg more than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Rio, 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 Rio (132 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Rio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Rio | 1984 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Kia | Reliant |
| Model | Rio | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1158 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2420 mm | 2140 mm |
