1973 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. (123 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 206 kg more than 1973 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 1973 Reliant Scimitar (266 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta. (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1973 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Reliant Scimitar | 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4644 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1778 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1482 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2651 mm |
