1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Signum
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Signum 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall Signum (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall Signum should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Signum weights approximately 907 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 Vauxhall Signum, 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 Vauxhall Signum (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2003 Vauxhall Signum | |
| Make | Caterham | Vauxhall |
| Model | 1700 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2840 mm |
