1980 Reliant Kitten vs. 2008 Volvo S40
To start off, 2008 Volvo S40 is newer by 28 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 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S40 (123 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S40 weights approximately 1116 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, 2008 Volvo S40, 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, 2008 Volvo S40 (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Reliant Kitten | 2008 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Reliant | Volvo |
| Model | Kitten | S40 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1651 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3330 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2150 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
