2001 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1979 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,994 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen Golf (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. (136 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Reliant Scimitar weights approximately 10 kg more than 2001 Volkswagen Golf.
Because 1979 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 1979 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen Golf, 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, 1979 Reliant Scimitar (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1979 Reliant Scimitar will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Volkswagen Golf. 1979 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2001 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2001 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Volkswagen Golf | 1979 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Reliant |
| Model | Golf | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2324 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.2 mm | 72.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1255 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
