1980 Reliant Kitten vs. 2011 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2011 Toyota Matrix is newer by 31 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Matrix (158 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Kitten.
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, 2011 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2011 Toyota Matrix (219 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Kitten. 2011 Toyota Matrix has automatic transmission and 1980 Reliant Kitten has manual transmission. 1980 Reliant Kitten will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Toyota Matrix will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Reliant Kitten | 2011 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Reliant | Toyota |
| Model | Kitten | Matrix |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 63 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1765 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1549 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2150 mm | 2601 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 50 L |
