1989 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 19 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. Both 1989 Reliant Scimitar and 2008 Volkswagen Polo are equipped with a 1,390 cc engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 216 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
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, 2008 Volkswagen Polo, 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 Polo (127 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Reliant Scimitar | 2008 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Polo |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 1390 cc |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 74 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2470 mm |
