1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry
To start off, 1985 Caterham 1700 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry 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 77 more horse power than 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry. (58 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry weights approximately 102 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Because 1985 Caterham 1700 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 1985 Caterham 1700. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry, 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, 1985 Caterham 1700 (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry. (81 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Caterham 1700 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1970 Datsun 100A Cherry | |
| Make | Caterham | Datsun |
| Model | 1700 | 100A Cherry |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1970 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 81 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 59 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 645 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2340 mm |
