1988 Opel Vectra vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1988 Opel Vectra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1988 Opel Vectra. (56 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1988 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 180 kg more than 1988 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Opel Vectra, 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, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Opel Vectra. (105 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1980 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Opel Vectra | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Vectra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
