2009 Audi A3 vs. 1989 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (200 HP) has 125 more horse power than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 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 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Reliant Scimitar. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1989 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1989 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 | 1989 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Audi | Reliant |
| Model | A3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2140 mm |
