1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2007 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2007 Suzuki Alto 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 1,692 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Caterham 1700 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2007 Suzuki Alto. (62 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2007 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Suzuki Alto weights approximately 332 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, 2007 Suzuki Alto, 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, 1985 Caterham 1700 (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Suzuki Alto. (85 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1985 Caterham 1700 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2007 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Caterham | Suzuki |
| Model | 1700 | Alto |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1061 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 150 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2370 mm |
