1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1955 Fairthorpe Atom
To start off, 1985 Caterham 1700 is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Fairthorpe Atom would be higher. At 1,692 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Caterham 1700 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. (15 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Caterham 1700 weights approximately 126 kg more than 1955 Fairthorpe Atom. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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:
1985 Caterham 1700 | 1955 Fairthorpe Atom | |
Make | Caterham | Fairthorpe |
Model | 1700 | Atom |
Year Released | 1985 | 1955 |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1692 cc | 322 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 15 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 60 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 57 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 6.1:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 417 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3660 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1530 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2270 mm |