1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2007 Ford Mondeo
To start off, 2007 Ford Mondeo is newer by 22 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 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Ford Mondeo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Ford Mondeo (153 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Ford Mondeo should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Ford Mondeo weights approximately 935 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, 2007 Ford Mondeo, 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, 2007 Ford Mondeo (360 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 195 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Ford Mondeo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2007 Ford Mondeo | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 1700 | Mondeo |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1478 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2760 mm |
