1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1991 Fiat Tipo
To start off, 1991 Fiat Tipo is newer by 6 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 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1991 Fiat Tipo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Fiat Tipo (145 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Fiat Tipo should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Fiat Tipo weights approximately 637 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1991 Fiat Tipo, 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, 1991 Fiat Tipo (173 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 Fiat Tipo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1991 Fiat Tipo | |
| Make | Caterham | Fiat |
| Model | 1700 | Tipo |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 173 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 208 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2550 mm |
