2009 Audi A3 vs. 1984 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1984 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 235 kg more than 2009 Audi A3.
Because 1984 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 1984 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 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 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 1984 Reliant Scimitar. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1984 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1984 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1984 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Audi | Reliant |
| Model | A3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 27 L |
