2004 Opel Astra vs. 1996 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2004 Opel Astra is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Astra (125 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Astra weights approximately 432 kg more than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Astra (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Astra | 1996 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Astra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1325 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2140 mm |
