2008 Mazda 2 vs. 1977 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 2008 Mazda 2 is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Reliant Kitten. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Reliant Kitten would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 2 (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1977 Reliant Kitten. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 2 should accelerate faster than 1977 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 2 weights approximately 431 kg more than 1977 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 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 1977 Reliant Kitten. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 2, 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, 2008 Mazda 2 (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 2 | 1977 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Mazda | Reliant |
| Model | 2 | Kitten |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 62.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.4 mm | 69.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 27 L |
