1982 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. (99 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1982 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 2 kg more than 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 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 1982 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Reliant Scimitar | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2520 mm |
