1965 DKW F 11 vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1986 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 DKW F 11. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 DKW F 11 would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 99 more horse power than 1965 DKW F 11. (34 HP @ 4300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1965 DKW F 11. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 570 kg more than 1965 DKW F 11. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1965 DKW F 11, 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, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 DKW F 11. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 DKW F 11.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 DKW F 11 | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | DKW | Reliant |
| Model | F 11 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3970 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2640 mm |
