2009 Nissan Maxima vs. 1988 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Nissan Maxima is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan Maxima (291 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 217 more horse power than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 771 kg more than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Nissan Maxima, 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 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. 2009 Nissan Maxima has automatic transmission and 1988 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1988 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Nissan Maxima will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Nissan Maxima | 1988 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Nissan | Reliant |
| Model | Maxima | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 354 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1617 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4841 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1859 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1468 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2776 mm | 2140 mm |
