1978 Reliant SE6 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 30 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1978 Reliant SE6. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 922 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 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 197 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant SE6.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Reliant SE6 | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | SE6 | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2994 cc | 4172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 330 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 2172 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2890 mm |
