1975 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1975 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1975 Reliant Scimitar. (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1975 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 152 kg more than 1975 Reliant Scimitar. 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, 2006 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, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Reliant Scimitar. (260 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Reliant Scimitar | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Passat |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.8 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.9:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1293 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 70 L |
