2009 Audi A3 vs. 1982 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 405 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1982 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 1982 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3, 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, 2009 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1982 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Audi | Reliant |
| Model | A3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 93.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 895 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |
