1986 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 27 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 115 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, 2013 Volkswagen 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (281 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant Scimitar | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
