1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2006 Ford Focus
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 21 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 2,522 cc (5 cylinders), 2006 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Focus (223 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Focus weights approximately 1173 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, 2006 Ford Focus, 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, 2006 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2006 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 1700 | Focus |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2522 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 223 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 93.2 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 241 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 5390 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2650 mm |
