1995 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1983 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1995 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP) has 45 more horse power than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 47 kg more than 1995 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1995 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 1995 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 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, 1995 Reliant Scimitar (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1995 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Reliant Scimitar | 1983 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Scimitar | Passat |
| Year Released | 1995 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1397 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 893 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2560 mm |
