1984 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 28 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 93 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. 2012 Volkswagen GTI has automatic transmission and 1984 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1984 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen GTI will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Reliant Scimitar | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | GTI |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2578 mm |
