1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2005 Citroen Xsara
To start off, 2005 Citroen Xsara is newer by 20 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) has 41 more horse power than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (94 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Citroen Xsara weights approximately 772 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, 2005 Citroen Xsara, 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, 1985 Caterham 1700 (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen Xsara. (135 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Caterham 1700 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen Xsara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2005 Citroen Xsara | |
| Make | Caterham | Citroen |
| Model | 1700 | Xsara |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1586 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 94 HP |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1315 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2770 mm |
