1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 19 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, both vehicles can yield 135 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 813 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700.
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, 2004 Ford Focus, 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, 2004 Ford Focus (178 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 1700 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2760 mm |
