1978 Reliant Kitten vs. 1972 Volkswagen SP2
To start off, 1978 Reliant Kitten is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen SP2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen SP2 would be higher. At 1,677 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volkswagen SP2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volkswagen SP2 weights approximately 365 kg more than 1978 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1972 Volkswagen SP2 (130 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1972 Volkswagen SP2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Reliant Kitten | 1972 Volkswagen SP2 | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kitten | SP2 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 846 cc | 1677 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.1 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3330 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1160 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2150 mm | 2410 mm |
