1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1981 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 752 kg more than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1981 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | SLK | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.4 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2052 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
