2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo vs. 1976 Reliant Kitten

To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Reliant Kitten. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Reliant Kitten would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (90 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1976 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo should accelerate faster than 1976 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 930 kg more than 1976 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 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 1976 Reliant Kitten. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (185 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Reliant Kitten.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo 1976 Reliant Kitten
Make Mercedes-Benz Reliant
Model Vaneo Kitten
Year Released 2003 1976
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1689 cc 848 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 90 HP 40 HP
Engine RPM 4200 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 185 Nm 63 Nm
Torque RPM 1600 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80.1 mm 62.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 69.1 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 19.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Doors 5 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1465 kg 535 kg
Vehicle Length 4200 mm 3330 mm
Vehicle Width 1750 mm 1430 mm
Vehicle Height 1840 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2860 mm 2150 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 27 L