1989 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 14 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP) has 163 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 708 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, 2003 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Golf |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 238 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2470 mm |
