2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 1,948 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1998 Reliant Scimitar. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 37 kg more than 1998 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 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 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Reliant Scimitar. (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1998 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Audi | Reliant |
| Model | A3 | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1948 cc | 1398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 127 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 930 kg | 893 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2140 mm |
