1997 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 445 kg more than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle, 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Reliant Scimitar | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
Model | Scimitar | Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1398 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 127 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 893 kg | 1338 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4277 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2537 mm |