1989 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 23 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP) has 125 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 553 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Reliant Scimitar | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | GTI |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1390 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 200 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2578 mm |
