1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2003 Suzuki Jimny
To start off, 2003 Suzuki Jimny 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 1,692 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Caterham 1700 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 2003 Suzuki Jimny. (76 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2003 Suzuki Jimny. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Suzuki Jimny weights approximately 483 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Because 2003 Suzuki Jimny is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1985 Caterham 1700. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Suzuki Jimny will offer significantly more control. 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Suzuki Jimny. (106 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1985 Caterham 1700 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Suzuki Jimny.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2003 Suzuki Jimny | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | 1700 | Jimny |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1298 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1026 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1710 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2260 mm |
