1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2005 Mazda Etude
To start off, 2005 Mazda Etude 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 1,839 cc, 2005 Mazda Etude is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Etude. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Etude. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Etude weights approximately 550 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 Mazda Etude, 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, 2005 Mazda Etude (168 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda Etude will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2005 Mazda Etude | |
| Make | Caterham | Mazda |
| Model | 1700 | Etude |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1839 cc |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 168 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 194 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1093 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2520 mm |
