1997 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1981 Volkswagen Santana
To start off, 1997 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Santana weights approximately 72 kg more than 1997 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1997 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 1997 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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 Reliant Scimitar (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Reliant Scimitar | 1981 Volkswagen Santana | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Santana |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 893 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2560 mm |
