1982 Volkswagen Rabbit vs. 1976 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Reliant Scimitar (135 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (64 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 420 kg more than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Reliant Scimitar 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 1976 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1976 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit. (116 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1976 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Volkswagen Rabbit | 1976 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Reliant |
| Model | Rabbit | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1715 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 116 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 845 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3950 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2620 mm |
