2005 Opel Astra vs. 1986 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 120 kg more than 2005 Opel Astra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1986 Reliant Scimitar (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1986 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra. 1986 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Astra has manual transmission. 2005 Opel Astra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1986 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Astra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1265 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 27 L |
