1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2003 Caterham 7
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 18 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Caterham 1700 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
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, 2003 Caterham 7 (210 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Caterham 1700 | 2003 Caterham 7 | |
Make | Caterham | Caterham |
Model | 1700 | 7 |
Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 80.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 89.3 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 490 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3110 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 810 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2230 mm |