1971 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Reliant Scimitar (123 HP @ 4750 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (70 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 78 kg more than 1971 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1971 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 1971 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1971 Reliant Scimitar (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (130 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1971 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Reliant Scimitar | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1268 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 3010 mm |
