1985 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2013 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 28 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 147 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, 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | GTI |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2790 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1412 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1779 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1469 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 55 L |
