2008 Dodge Nitro vs. 1981 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 2008 Dodge Nitro is newer by 27 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 2,768 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Dodge Nitro (175 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Dodge Nitro weights approximately 1320 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 2008 Dodge Nitro is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1981 Reliant Kitten. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Dodge Nitro 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, 2008 Dodge Nitro (460 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 397 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Dodge Nitro | 1981 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Dodge | Reliant |
| Model | Nitro | Kitten |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2768 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 62.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 100 mm | 69.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 27 L |
