1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2011 Opel Astra
To start off, 2011 Opel Astra is newer by 25 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, 2011 Opel Astra (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Opel Astra weights approximately 128 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, 2011 Opel Astra, 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, 2011 Opel Astra (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 2011 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Reliant | Opel |
| Model | Scimitar | Astra |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 52 L |
