1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 17 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Renault Megane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (132 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Renault Megane weights approximately 450 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, 2003 Renault Megane, 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, 2003 Renault Megane (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Reliant | Renault |
| Model | Scimitar | Megane |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.9 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3880 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2750 mm |
