1998 BMW 317 vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1998 BMW 317 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,809 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 515 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Reliant Scimitar. (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | BMW | Reliant |
| Model | 317 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2140 mm |
