2003 Opel Astra vs. 1995 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Astra (142 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1995 Reliant Scimitar. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1995 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Astra weights approximately 257 kg more than 1995 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Astra (204 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Astra | 1995 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Astra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2140 mm |
