2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1565 kg more than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (241 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | C | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2993 cc |
| Horse Power | 181 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 27 L |
