1998 Reliant Scimitar vs. 1981 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1998 Reliant Scimitar is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Reliant Scimitar (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 47 kg more than 1998 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1998 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 1998 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 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, 1998 Reliant Scimitar (127 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Passat. (100 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Reliant Scimitar | 1981 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
Model | Scimitar | Passat |
Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1296 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 104 HP | 59 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
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 |