1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1997 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 1997 Subaru Impreza 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 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 46 more horse power than 1997 Subaru Impreza. (89 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1997 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Subaru Impreza weights approximately 601 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Because 1997 Subaru Impreza is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Caterham 1700. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Subaru Impreza will offer significantly more control. 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, 1985 Caterham 1700 (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Subaru Impreza. (128 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Caterham 1700 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Subaru Impreza.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1997 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Caterham | Subaru |
| Model | 1700 | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 128 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1144 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2530 mm |
