1984 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Opel Astra (197 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 325 kg more than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 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 1984 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra, 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, 2011 Opel Astra (262 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Reliant Scimitar | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Reliant | Opel |
| Model | Scimitar | Astra |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 262 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
