1985 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (95 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 225 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Volkswagen Polo. (126 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1985 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Reliant Scimitar | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Polo |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 887 kg | 1112 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2590 mm |
