1996 Hyundai Elantra vs. 1982 Reliant Kitten

To start off, 1996 Hyundai Elantra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Reliant Kitten. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Reliant Kitten would be higher. At 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Hyundai Elantra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Hyundai Elantra (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1982 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Elantra should accelerate faster than 1982 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Hyundai Elantra weights approximately 698 kg more than 1982 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1982 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 1982 Reliant Kitten. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Hyundai Elantra, 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, 1996 Hyundai Elantra (166 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 103 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Hyundai Elantra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Reliant Kitten. 1996 Hyundai Elantra has automatic transmission and 1982 Reliant Kitten has manual transmission. 1982 Reliant Kitten will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Hyundai Elantra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Hyundai Elantra 1982 Reliant Kitten
Make Hyundai Reliant
Model Elantra Kitten
Year Released 1996 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1795 cc 846 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 130 HP 40 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 166 Nm 63 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 62.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85 mm 69.1 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1233 kg 535 kg
Vehicle Length 4460 mm 3330 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1430 mm
Vehicle Height 1500 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2560 mm 2150 mm