1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1999 Fiat Punto
To start off, 1999 Fiat Punto is newer by 14 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 55 more horse power than 1999 Fiat Punto. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1999 Fiat Punto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Fiat Punto weights approximately 392 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700.
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, 1999 Fiat Punto, 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, 1985 Caterham 1700 (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Fiat Punto. (114 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1985 Caterham 1700 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Fiat Punto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 1999 Fiat Punto | |
| Make | Caterham | Fiat |
| Model | 1700 | Punto |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 114 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 172 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 935 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2470 mm |
