1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1986 Lotus Esprit
To start off, 1986 Lotus Esprit is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Caterham 1700. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Caterham 1700 would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (215 HP) has 80 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1986 Lotus Esprit (405 Nm) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1986 Lotus Esprit | |
| Make | Caterham | Lotus |
| Model | 1700 | Esprit |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 215 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 405 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 246 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2440 mm |
