1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2002 Renault Avantime
To start off, 2002 Renault Avantime is newer by 17 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 2,186 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Renault Avantime is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Renault Avantime (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Renault Avantime should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Renault Avantime weights approximately 1210 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, 2002 Renault Avantime, 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, 2002 Renault Avantime (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Renault Avantime will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2002 Renault Avantime | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | 1700 | Avantime |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2186 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1753 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2810 mm |
