2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 518 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
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 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1985 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1985 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | SLK | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3199 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 95 HP |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2140 mm |
