1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna
To start off, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna is newer by 3 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 2,555 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Mitsubishi Magna is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. (111 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1988 Mitsubishi Magna. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Mitsubishi Magna weights approximately 782 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna, 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, 1988 Mitsubishi Magna (195 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1988 Mitsubishi Magna will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1988 Mitsubishi Magna | |
| Make | Caterham | Mitsubishi |
| Model | 1700 | Magna |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2555 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 111 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2600 mm |
