1959 BMW 502 vs. 1984 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1984 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 BMW 502 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1959 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1959 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 BMW 502 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1984 Reliant Scimitar.
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. 1984 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1959 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1959 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 BMW 502 | 1984 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | BMW | Reliant |
| Model | 502 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2580 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2640 mm |
