1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2002 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 16 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (113 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 265 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
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, 2002 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen Golf. 2002 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 1986 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1986 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 2002 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Golf |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3880 mm | 4148 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2512 mm |
