1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2007 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2007 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Volkswagen Passat (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 955 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 Volkswagen Passat, 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 Volkswagen Passat (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2007 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1700 | Passat |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1498 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
