1999 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 95 kg more than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1985 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1985 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. 1985 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 1999 Volkswagen Beetle has manual transmission. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Reliant |
| Model | Beetle | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 2790 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 150 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
