Reliant Kitten
The four-wheeled Robin that defied rust with a glass-fibre body.
- Power
- 40 bhp
- 0–60 mph
- 19.0 s
- Top speed
- 80 mph
- Est. value
- $2k–$6k
About the Reliant Kitten
Launched in 1975 as a four-wheeled alternative to the iconic Robin, the Reliant Kitten utilised a lightweight glass-fibre body mounted on a separate steel chassis. Its 848cc all-alloy engine was advanced for its class, offering exceptional fuel economy of over 50 mpg, though its high purchase price compared to the Leyland Mini limited its commercial success. The Kitten is noted for its rust-proof construction and a remarkably tight 23-foot turning circle, making it a nimble urban runabout. Today, it is a cult classic, valued for its quirky British engineering and the rarity resulting from a production run of just over 4,000 units.
Reliant Kitten specs
The Reliant Kitten produces 40 bhp (30 kW) and 63 Nm (46 lb-ft) of torque. It reaches 60 mph in 19.0 seconds and has a top speed of 80 mph (129 km/h).
| Make | Reliant |
|---|---|
| Model | Kitten |
| Trim | 850 |
| Years | 1975–1982 |
| Type | Hatchback |
| Body style | Saloon |
| Country | United Kingdom |
| Production | About 4,074 built |
| Engine | 848cc light-alloy inline-four |
|---|---|
| Displacement | 848 cc (0.8 litres) |
| Induction | Naturally aspirated |
| Power | 40 bhp (30 kW) at 5,500 rpm |
| Torque | 63 Nm (46 lb-ft) |
| 0–60 mph | 19.0 s |
| Top speed | 80 mph (129 km/h) |
| Transmission | 4-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Weight | 508 kg (1,120 lb) |
| Power-to-weight | 79 bhp per tonne |
Typical figures for the standard car; options, markets and model years vary. Where our specs come from
How much is a Reliant Kitten worth?
A typical Reliant Kitten is estimated to be worth $1,500 – $5,500 (about £1,100 – £4,100).
Values are directional estimates for a typical example, not appraisals. Condition, mileage, history and specification all change what a real car is worth. Pound figures use the exchange rate of 3 November 2026. How values are estimated
Reliant Kitten rarity in CarSpot
The Reliant Kitten is a Rare card in CarSpot, with a rarity score of 43 out of 100. Performance cars, typically worth around £50,000 to £100,000. A Rare card is worth 40 XP.
Each model's tier starts from a 0–100 score based on its value plus its power or production numbers. Once enough players have spotted a model, how often it is spotted can move it up or down one tier. How CarSpot rarity works
Rarity is a collectible game mechanic, not an assessment of real-world scarcity or value.
Reliant Kitten fun facts
- The Kitten's front suspension was a double-wishbone design inspired by Lotus, giving it surprisingly competent handling for an economy car.
- Because of its glass-fibre body and separate chassis, many Kittens have survived the rust that claimed their contemporary steel rivals.
- After UK production ended, the design was sold to Sipani Automobiles in India, where it was produced as the Sipani Dolphin.