1980 Reliant Kitten vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Reliant Kitten. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Reliant Kitten would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 745 kg more than 1980 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Reliant Kitten 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 1980 Reliant Kitten. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
1980 Reliant Kitten | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
Model | Kitten | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1980 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 848 cc | 1595 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 39 HP | 101 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 63 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3330 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2150 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |