1978 Reliant SE6 vs. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 5,998 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton (444 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 310 more horse power than 1978 Reliant SE6. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 68 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 1978 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 1978 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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 Phaeton (551 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 318 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant SE6. 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Phaeton will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Reliant SE6 | 2006 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | SE6 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 5998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 444 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 551 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1318 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3010 mm |
