2001 Opel Astra vs. 1981 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 2001 Opel Astra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Reliant Kitten. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Reliant Kitten would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Astra weights approximately 810 kg more than 1981 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Kitten. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Opel Astra, 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, 2001 Opel Astra (170 Nm) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm). This means 2001 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Astra | 1981 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Astra | Kitten |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 27 L |
