1970 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1970 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1970 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 160 kg more than 1970 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 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 1970 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New 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. Let's talk about torque, 1970 Reliant Scimitar (267 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. (231 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1970 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle has automatic transmission and 1970 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1970 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Reliant Scimitar | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1970 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2480 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 267 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 23 L | 55 L |
