1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2001 Fiat Ecobasic

To start off, 2001 Fiat Ecobasic is newer by 16 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 75 more horse power than 2001 Fiat Ecobasic. (60 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2001 Fiat Ecobasic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Fiat Ecobasic weights approximately 213 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, 2001 Fiat Ecobasic, 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 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Fiat Ecobasic. (163 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1985 Caterham 1700 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Fiat Ecobasic. 2001 Fiat Ecobasic 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. 2001 Fiat Ecobasic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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