2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1977 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 32 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1977 Reliant Kitten. (39 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1977 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 2295 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 187 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1977 Reliant Kitten | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
| Model | A | Kitten |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 848 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 63 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 2830 kg | 535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2150 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 27 L |
