1997 Citroen Xsara vs. 1980 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 1997 Citroen Xsara is newer by 17 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 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Citroen Xsara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Citroen Xsara (74 HP) has 35 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Citroen Xsara should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 485 kg more than 1980 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1997 Citroen Xsara (110 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Citroen Xsara | 1980 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Citroen | Reliant |
| Model | Xsara | Kitten |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1360 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 27 L |
