1983 Reliant Kitten vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Reliant Kitten. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Reliant Kitten would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1983 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 755 kg more than 1983 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 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 1983 Reliant Kitten. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Reliant Kitten. (64 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Reliant Kitten | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Reliant | Volkswagen |
| Model | Kitten | Golf |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.1 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3330 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2150 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |
