1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2003 Seat Alhambra
To start off, 2003 Seat Alhambra 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 1,780 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Seat Alhambra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Seat Alhambra (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Seat Alhambra should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Seat Alhambra weights approximately 1122 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, 2003 Seat Alhambra, 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, 2003 Seat Alhambra (214 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Seat Alhambra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2003 Seat Alhambra | |
| Make | Caterham | Seat |
| Model | 1700 | Alhambra |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1780 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 214 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1665 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4620 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2830 mm |
