2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1981 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (202 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 1245 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1981 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | C | Kitten |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2496 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 202 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 62.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.4 mm | 69.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 27 L |
