2006 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1980 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 485 kg more than 1980 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1980 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 1980 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz A (251 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Scimitar. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1980 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1980 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz A | 1980 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | A | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2640 mm |
