2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1982 Reliant Kitten

To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Reliant Kitten. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Reliant Kitten would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 188 more horse power than 1982 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1982 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 790 kg more than 1982 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1982 Reliant Kitten. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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 C (300 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Reliant Kitten. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1982 Reliant Kitten has manual transmission. 1982 Reliant Kitten will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Mercedes-Benz C 1982 Reliant Kitten
Make Mercedes-Benz Reliant
Model C Kitten
Year Released 2009 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2996 cc 846 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 228 HP 40 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 300 Nm 63 Nm
Torque RPM 2700 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.0:1 9.5:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD Rear
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1325 kg 535 kg
Vehicle Length 4640 mm 3330 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1430 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 2770 mm 2150 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 66 L 27 L