1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2005 Nissan Altima
To start off, 2005 Nissan Altima 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Altima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Altima (260 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Altima should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Altima weights approximately 944 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 Nissan Altima, 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 Nissan Altima (334 Nm) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Altima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2005 Nissan Altima | |
| Make | Caterham | Nissan |
| Model | 1700 | Altima |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 3491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1487 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2830 mm |
