1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1990 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 1990 Pontiac Firebird 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 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1990 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Pontiac Firebird (235 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Pontiac Firebird 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, 1990 Pontiac Firebird (447 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 282 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1990 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1990 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Caterham | Pontiac |
| Model | 1700 | Firebird |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 235 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 447 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 88.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |
