1978 Reliant SE6 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 29 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 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Reliant SE6 (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 228 kg more than 1978 Reliant SE6.
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, 2007 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 1978 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. (155 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1978 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen Passat. 2007 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. 2007 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Reliant SE6 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | SE6 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
