2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1985 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (134 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (95 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 1943 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (132 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1985 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | A | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2034 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 80.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3890 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2140 mm |
