1985 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 24 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 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (207 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Reliant Scimitar | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | GTI |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2790 cc | 1984 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 | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 207 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2580 mm |
