1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1990 Mercury Capri
To start off, 1990 Mercury Capri is newer by 5 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 1,692 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Caterham 1700 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Capri. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercury Capri weights approximately 567 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, 1990 Mercury Capri, 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, 1990 Mercury Capri (184 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1990 Mercury Capri will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1990 Mercury Capri | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercury |
| Model | 1700 | Capri |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |
