1989 Dodge Shadow vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Dodge Shadow is newer by 11 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, 1989 Dodge Shadow (175 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Dodge Shadow weights approximately 23 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.
Because 1978 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 1978 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Dodge Shadow, 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, 1989 Dodge Shadow (278 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1989 Dodge Shadow will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. 1978 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1989 Dodge Shadow has manual transmission. 1989 Dodge Shadow will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1989 Dodge Shadow | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
Make | Dodge | Reliant |
Model | Shadow | Scimitar |
Year Released | 1989 | 1978 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2213 cc | 2993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 278 Nm | 236 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93.7 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 72.4 mm |
Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1288 kg | 1265 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4450 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2640 mm |