1981 Reliant SE6 vs. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Reliant SE6 (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Reliant SE6 should accelerate faster than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 106 kg more than 1981 Reliant SE6.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant SE6. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 1981 Reliant SE6 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle. (172 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1981 Reliant SE6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Reliant SE6 | 2007 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
Model | SE6 | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1981 | 2007 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2994 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 133 HP | 114 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 233 Nm | 172 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1356 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1510 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |