Mahindra Scorpio Classic vs Thar: Different Body Styles, Same Engine

In this edition of Zig’s performance-testing report, we lineup two popular Mahindra SUVs: the Thar and Scorpio Classic. One is an off-roader, while the other is a rugged body-on-frame family SUV. But, they have one thing in common: Mahindra’s refined 2.2-litre diesel engine developing 132 horses paired with a six-speed manual. The only difference in the drivetrain is that the Thar is four-wheel drive, while the Scorpio Classic is rear-wheel drive. 

So, which one is quicker and has better braking performance? Let’s find out. 

Acceleration Test  

Its lights out and away we go, and it’s the Scorpio that’s managed to get a better start. Thanks to which, the SUV manages to keep the lead and win the 0-100kmph acceleration test by 0.22 seconds. We suspect the Scorpio Classic’s lighter two-wheel-drive system has managed to give it the edge over the Thar’s heavier four-wheel-drive system. 

A more realistic way to look at on-road performance is through the roll-on figures, where the Scorpio Classic manages to edge the Thar considerably in both runs. So yes, the Scorpio Classic takes home the win in this round, but what about braking?

Also Read: 2022 Mahindra Scorpio N Turbo-petrol vs Diesel Automatic: How Fast And Frugal Is Mahindra’s New SUV?

Braking Test   

Both SUVs rely on discs at the front and drum brakes at the rear. However, there is one difference between the two: the Thar has wider 255-section tyres as opposed to the Scorpio’s slightly narrower 235-section boots and the result is evident in the table below:

Thanks to the slightly broader section tyres that offer more contact patch, the off-roader manages to stop a smidge earlier than the family SUV. Although the difference is marginal, the Thar wins this round. 

Also Read: Maruti Suzuki Grand Vitara vs Skoda Kushaq: Base Engine Options Compared

Price And Verdict

Both vehicles have earned a point each in the tests. The Scorpio Classic has better performance, while the Thar edges the SUV when it comes to braking. So, not only do they get a point each, their performance was really close as well, which would make it hard to differentiate between the two in the real world. Thus, it makes sense to call this test a tie. 

However, if you’re interested in seeing how the Thar did against the new Scorpio N in its home ground – pretty much anywhere off the road – watch our fun video below where we put both SUVs through their paces.