1998 Opel Speedster vs. 1996 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1998 Opel Speedster is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Speedster (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Speedster weights approximately 52 kg more than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Opel Speedster (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Opel Speedster | 1996 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Speedster | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2140 mm |
