2011 Kia Optima vs. 1983 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2011 Kia Optima is newer by 28 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, 2011 Kia Optima (274 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Kia Optima weights approximately 235 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, 2011 Kia Optima, 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, 2011 Kia Optima (364 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Kia Optima | 1983 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Kia | Reliant |
| Model | Optima | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2011 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 274 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 364 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4844 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1831 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1455 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2797 mm | 2640 mm |
