2012 Volkswagen Routan vs. 1982 Reliant Scimitar
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Routan (283 HP @ 6350 RPM) has 148 more horse power than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. (135 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 819 kg more than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Routan, 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 Routan (352 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Reliant Scimitar. (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Reliant Scimitar.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 Volkswagen Routan | 1982 Reliant Scimitar | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Reliant |
| Model | Routan | Scimitar |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 2792 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 283 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6350 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 352 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2084 kg | 1265 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5144 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1953 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3078 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 27 L |
