1985 Reliant Scimitar vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,790 cc (6 cylinders), 1985 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (140 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 259 kg more than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (320 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Reliant Scimitar. 2012 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1985 Reliant Scimitar has manual transmission. 1985 Reliant Scimitar will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Reliant Scimitar | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Passat |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2790 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1524 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 70 L |
