1977 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1977 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (70 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1977 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 470 kg more than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1977 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. (110 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1977 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 1977 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1977 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Reliant Scimitar | 1976 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.8 mm | 79.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.4 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2410 mm |
