1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1996 Nissan Primera
To start off, 1996 Nissan Primera is newer by 11 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Nissan Primera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Nissan Primera (148 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Nissan Primera should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Nissan Primera weights approximately 727 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, 1996 Nissan Primera, 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, 1996 Nissan Primera (181 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Nissan Primera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1996 Nissan Primera | |
| Make | Caterham | Nissan |
| Model | 1700 | Primera |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2610 mm |
