1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2007 Honda Element
To start off, 2007 Honda Element 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 2,352 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Honda Element (166 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Honda Element should accelerate faster 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, 2007 Honda Element, 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 Honda Element (218 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2007 Honda Element | |
| Make | Caterham | Honda |
| Model | 1700 | Element |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2352 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 218 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 99 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2580 mm |
