2009 Pontiac Torrent vs. 1981 Reliant Kitten
To start off, 2009 Pontiac Torrent 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Pontiac Torrent is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Pontiac Torrent (264 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 224 more horse power than 1981 Reliant Kitten. (40 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Pontiac Torrent should accelerate faster than 1981 Reliant Kitten. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Pontiac Torrent weights approximately 789 kg more than 1981 Reliant Kitten. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Pontiac Torrent, 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 Pontiac Torrent (339 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 276 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Reliant Kitten. (63 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Pontiac Torrent will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Reliant Kitten. 2009 Pontiac Torrent has automatic transmission and 1981 Reliant Kitten has manual transmission. 1981 Reliant Kitten will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Pontiac Torrent will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Pontiac Torrent | 1981 Reliant Kitten | |
Make | Pontiac | Reliant |
Model | Torrent | Kitten |
Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3600 cc | 848 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 264 HP | 40 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 339 Nm | 63 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 540 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 3330 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2150 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 27 L |