1989 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1998 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (89 HP) has 14 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 460 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (202 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 93 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Reliant Scimitar | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 89 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2480 mm |
