1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2004 MG ZS
To start off, 2004 MG ZS 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 MG ZS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2004 MG ZS. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2004 MG ZS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 MG ZS weights approximately 532 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 MG ZS, 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, both vehicles can yield 165 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2004 MG ZS | |
| Make | Caterham | MG |
| Model | 1700 | ZS |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 89.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2630 mm |
