1957 Volkswagen Beetle vs. 1975 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1975 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 97 more horse power than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1975 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 526 kg more than 1957 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1957 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1957 Volkswagen Beetle | 1975 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Reliant |
| Model | Beetle | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1957 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 740 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4070 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1330 mm |
