1976 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1976 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1976 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 68 kg more than 1976 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen 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, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Reliant Scimitar | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 236 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 | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1333 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4278 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1808 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
