1997 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1997 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 48 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Reliant Scimitar | 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 893 kg | 845 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2410 mm |
