1996 Opel Vectra vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1996 Opel Vectra is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1996 Opel Vectra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Vectra weights approximately 1 kg more than 1978 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1978 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 1978 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Vectra, 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, 1978 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Vectra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Vectra. 1978 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1996 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 1996 Opel Vectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Vectra | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Vectra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
