1988 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,323 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 494 kg more than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
1988 Reliant Scimitar | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
Model | Scimitar | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1988 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1392 cc | 2323 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 74 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 109 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 90.2 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 846 kg | 1340 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2510 mm |