1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport
To start off, 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport is newer by 12 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 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport weights approximately 1159 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, 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport, 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, 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport (190 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1997 Pontiac Trans Sport | |
| Make | Caterham | Pontiac |
| Model | 1700 | Trans Sport |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 6 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1702 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 3110 mm |
