1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1983 Lancia Beta
To start off, 1985 Caterham 1700 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Lancia Beta would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Lancia Beta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 135 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Lancia Beta weights approximately 592 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, 1983 Lancia Beta, 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, 1983 Lancia Beta (206 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1983 Lancia Beta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Caterham 1700 | 1983 Lancia Beta | |
Make | Caterham | Lancia |
Model | 1700 | Beta |
Year Released | 1985 | 1983 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 206 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 7.5:1 |
Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1135 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1660 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1290 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2390 mm |