2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1988 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (100 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (74 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 224 kg more than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 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 1988 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Reliant Scimitar. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1988 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1988 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1988 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | A | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1392 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3780 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2140 mm |
