1983 Reliant Kitten vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 29 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 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1983 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1983 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 790 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Reliant Kitten. (64 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Reliant Kitten | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Reliant | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Kitten | A |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 62.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.1 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 535 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3330 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2150 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 60 L |
