2008 Opel Astra vs. 1973 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Reliant Scimitar (123 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Opel Astra. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 186 kg more than 1973 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1973 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 1973 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1973 Reliant Scimitar (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Opel Astra. (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1973 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1973 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Astra | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1248 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 266 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2540 mm |
