1979 Opel Kadett vs. 1988 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1988 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,392 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Reliant Scimitar (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (52 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 11 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 Opel Kadett, 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, 1988 Reliant Scimitar (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (83 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1988 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Kadett | 1988 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Kadett | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 83 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 835 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2140 mm |
