1997 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1997 Audi A8 is newer by 19 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, 1997 Audi A8 (150 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Audi A8 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Audi A8, 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, 1997 Audi A8 (310 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Audi A8 | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Audi | Reliant |
| Model | A8 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.3 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 214 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1625 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5040 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 27 L |
