1999 Opel Astra vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1999 Opel Astra is newer by 13 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 1999 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Astra weights approximately 310 kg more than 1986 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1986 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 1986 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Opel Astra, 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, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Astra. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Astra | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Astra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1389 cc | 1809 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 125 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 3880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2140 mm |
