1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2003 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Polo 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 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 35 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. (98 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 194 kg more than 2003 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Volkswagen Polo (240 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 2003 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Polo |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1895 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 98 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1106 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3910 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2590 mm |
