2008 Opel Astra vs. 1980 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 2008 Opel Astra is newer by 28 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 1,796 cc, 2008 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Astra (123 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Astra weights approximately 860 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, 2008 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (280 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Reliant Kitten. 2008 Opel Astra has automatic transmission and 1980 Reliant Kitten has manual transmission. 1980 Reliant Kitten will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Opel Astra will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Astra | 1980 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Opel | Reliant |
| Model | Astra | Kitten |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 848 cc |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 27 L |
