1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 747 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1985 Caterham 1700 has manual transmission. 1985 Caterham 1700 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Caterham 1700 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 1700 | SLK |
Year Released | 1985 | 1999 |
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 | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2410 mm |