1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 18 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 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 596 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 2004 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (187 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1809 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1436 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3880 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2510 mm |
