2003 Opel Signum vs. 1987 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (152 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. (68 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 725 kg more than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Signum (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Reliant Scimitar. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1987 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1987 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 1987 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Signum | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3500 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 | 1565 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2140 mm |
