1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1984 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (190 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 60 kg more than 1984 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. 1984 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK has manual transmission. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1984 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | SLK | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2295 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 27 L |
