1987 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2011 Volvo C30
To start off, 2011 Volvo C30 is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volvo C30 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volvo C30 (227 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volvo C30 should accelerate faster than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volvo C30 weights approximately 611 kg more than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volvo C30, 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 Volvo C30 (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Volvo C30 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Reliant Scimitar | 2011 Volvo C30 | |
| Make | Reliant | Volvo |
| Model | Scimitar | C30 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 227 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4265 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1783 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2639 mm |
