2001 Opel Signum vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 23 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, 2001 Opel Signum (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 133 kg more than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum, 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, 1978 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Signum. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Signum. 1978 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Signum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Signum | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Signum | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 27 L |
