1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1979 Seat 131
To start off, 1985 Caterham 1700 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Seat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Seat 131 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Seat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1979 Seat 131. (132 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1979 Seat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Seat 131 weights approximately 462 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, 1979 Seat 131, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1979 Seat 131 | |
| Make | Caterham | Seat |
| Model | 1700 | 131 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 132 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1005 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2500 mm |
