1972 NSU Ro 80 vs. 1989 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1989 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 NSU Ro 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 NSU Ro 80 would be higher. At 2,390 cc, 1972 NSU Ro 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 NSU Ro 80 (114 HP) has 39 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1972 NSU Ro 80 should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 NSU Ro 80 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 NSU Ro 80, 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, 1972 NSU Ro 80 (162 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1972 NSU Ro 80 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. 1972 NSU Ro 80 has automatic transmission and 1989 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1989 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 NSU Ro 80 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 NSU Ro 80 | 1989 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | NSU | Reliant |
| Model | Ro 80 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2390 cc | 1390 cc |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 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 | 1210 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2140 mm |
