1981 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 3,997 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (271 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 365 kg more than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Volkswagen Passat (370 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Reliant Scimitar | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Passat |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2790 cc | 3997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | W |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2710 mm |
