1978 Reliant SE6 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 3,167 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Passat (247 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1978 Reliant SE6. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 410 kg more than 1978 Reliant SE6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Reliant SE6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 (320 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant SE6. 2006 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1978 Reliant SE6 has manual transmission. 1978 Reliant SE6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Reliant SE6 | 2006 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | SE6 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 3167 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
