1997 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1979 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Reliant Kitten. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Reliant Kitten would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (58 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1979 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1979 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 585 kg more than 1979 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Reliant Kitten. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Reliant Kitten. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1979 Reliant Kitten has manual transmission. 1979 Reliant Kitten will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Mercedes-Benz A | 1979 Reliant Kitten | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
Model | A | Kitten |
Year Released | 1997 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1689 cc | 848 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 40 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 63 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 62.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.1 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3580 mm | 3330 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2150 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 27 L |