1997 Ford Maverick vs. 1980 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 1997 Ford Maverick 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 2,663 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Maverick is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Maverick (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Maverick should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Maverick weights approximately 1315 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 1997 Ford Maverick is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1980 Reliant Kitten. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Maverick will offer significantly more control. 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 Ford Maverick (221 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Maverick will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Maverick | 1980 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Maverick | Kitten |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2663 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1850 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1400 mm |
