1959 Austin A 135 vs. 1986 Caterham 1700
To start off, 1986 Caterham 1700 is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Austin A 135. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Austin A 135 would be higher. At 3,993 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Austin A 135 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Caterham 1700 (168 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1959 Austin A 135. (150 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1959 Austin A 135.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Austin A 135 | 1986 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | Austin | Caterham |
| Model | A 135 | 1700 |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3993 cc | 1692 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.6:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 5110 mm | 3390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1050 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3100 mm | 2260 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 36 L |
