1988 Mini MK V vs. 1977 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 1988 Mini MK V is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Reliant Kitten. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Reliant Kitten would be higher. At 998 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mini MK V is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Mini MK V (41 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1977 Reliant Kitten. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Mini MK V should accelerate faster than 1977 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mini MK V weights approximately 90 kg more than 1977 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Reliant Kitten. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Mini MK V, 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, 1988 Mini MK V (70 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1988 Mini MK V will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Mini MK V | 1977 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Mini | Reliant |
| Model | MK V | Kitten |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 41 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 70 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 625 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2150 mm |
