2003 Opel Vectra vs. 1978 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 25 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 499 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, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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 Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant Scimitar. 2003 Opel Vectra has automatic transmission and 1978 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1978 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Vectra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Vectra | 1978 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Vectra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1764 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 27 L |
