1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1989 Ford Escort
To start off, 1989 Ford Escort is newer by 4 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 1,859 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1989 Ford Escort. (89 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Ford Escort weights approximately 482 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, 1989 Ford Escort, 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 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Escort. (144 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 1985 Caterham 1700 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1989 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 1700 | Escort |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1859 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 144 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2400 mm |
