1999 Opel Speedster vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1999 Opel Speedster is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Speedster (147 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 320 kg more than 1999 Opel Speedster.
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, 1978 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Speedster. (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Speedster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Speedster | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Speedster | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2199 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 147 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 945 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3790 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 27 L |
