2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Reliant Kitten. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Reliant Kitten would be higher. At 1,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (94 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1978 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 690 kg more than 1978 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 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 (141 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 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 1978 Reliant Kitten.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Reliant Kitten | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Reliant |
Model | A | Kitten |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1498 cc | 846 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 40 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 141 Nm | 63 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 62.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.2 mm | 69.1 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1225 kg | 535 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 3330 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2150 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 27 L |