1981 Reliant SE6 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 27 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 1981 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 250 kg more than 1981 Reliant SE6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 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, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant SE6. (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant SE6.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Reliant SE6 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
Model | SE6 | Passat |
Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
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 | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 233 Nm | 281 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1500 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 |