2012 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 1979 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 33 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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. (136 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 135 kg more than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Reliant Scimitar. 1979 Reliant Scimitar has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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:
| 2012 Volkswagen Jetta | 1979 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Reliant |
| Model | Jetta | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2500 cc | 2994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 236 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 5-speed manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1400 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4644 mm | 4450 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1778 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1482 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2651 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 27 L |
