2009 Kia Spectra vs. 1981 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 2009 Kia Spectra is newer by 28 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 1,975 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Kia Spectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Kitten.
Because 1981 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 1981 Reliant Kitten. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Kia Spectra, 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, 2009 Kia Spectra (185 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Spectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Spectra | 1981 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Kia | Reliant |
| Model | Spectra | Kitten |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1975 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 185 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 62.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 69.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 27 L |
