1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2004 Rover 45
To start off, 2004 Rover 45 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Rover 45 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2004 Rover 45. (100 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2004 Rover 45. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Rover 45 weights approximately 762 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 Rover 45, 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 Rover 45 (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Rover 45 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2004 Rover 45 | |
| Make | Caterham | Rover |
| Model | 1700 | 45 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 84.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2560 mm |
