2012 Volkswagen Golf vs. 1982 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Reliant Scimitar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Reliant Scimitar would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 Reliant Scimitar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Reliant Scimitar (133 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Reliant Scimitar should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 150 kg more than 1982 Reliant Scimitar.
Because 1982 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 1982 Reliant Scimitar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 2012 Volkswagen Golf (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. 1982 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Reliant Scimitar will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Golf | 1982 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Reliant |
| Model | Golf | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1600 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4534 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1781 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1504 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2640 mm |
