2008 BMW M5 vs. 1983 Reliant Scimitar

To start off, 2008 BMW M5 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 4,999 cc (10 cylinders), 2008 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW M5 (500 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 367 more horse power than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW M5 weights approximately 530 kg more than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 BMW M5 (520 Nm @ 6100 RPM) has 314 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Reliant Scimitar. 2008 BMW M5 has automatic transmission and 1983 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1983 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW M5 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 BMW M5 1983 Reliant Scimitar
Make BMW Reliant
Model M5 Scimitar
Year Released 2008 1983
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4999 cc 2792 cc
Engine Cylinders 10 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 500 HP 133 HP
Engine RPM 7750 RPM 5200 RPM
Torque 520 Nm 206 Nm
Torque RPM 6100 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 92 mm 93 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.2 mm 68.5 mm
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1830 kg 1300 kg
Vehicle Length 4860 mm 4450 mm
Vehicle Width 1850 mm 1720 mm
Vehicle Height 1480 mm 1330 mm
Wheelbase Size 2900 mm 2640 mm