1976 Reliant SE6 vs. 2012 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1976 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1976 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 108 kg more than 1976 Reliant SE6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Reliant SE6 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 SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Golf (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Reliant SE6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Reliant SE6 | 2012 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | SE6 | Golf |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1358 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2578 mm |
