1964 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1978 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1978 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,553 cc (6 cylinders), 1964 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Reliant Scimitar (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (47 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 88 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 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 1964 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1964 Reliant Scimitar (190 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Passat. (83 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1964 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Reliant Scimitar | 1978 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Passat |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2553 cc | 1457 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 47 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1003 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2400 mm |
