1986 Reliant SE6 vs. 2008 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Reliant SE6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Reliant SE6 would be higher. At 2,992 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Reliant SE6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Passat (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1986 Reliant SE6. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1986 Reliant SE6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 260 kg more than 1986 Reliant SE6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 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 (350 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 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 1986 Reliant SE6. 2008 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1986 Reliant SE6 has manual transmission. 1986 Reliant SE6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Reliant SE6 | 2008 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | SE6 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2992 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1510 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
