2004 Kia Optima vs. 1980 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 2004 Kia Optima is newer by 24 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 2,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Kia Optima (137 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Kia Optima weights approximately 953 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, 2004 Kia Optima, 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, 2004 Kia Optima (199 Nm) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm). This means 2004 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Kia Optima | 1980 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Kia | Reliant |
| Model | Optima | Kitten |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2360 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 137 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 199 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 27 L |
