1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. (89 HP @ 3750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 52 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle (210 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 1999 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1248 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2510 mm |
