1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2008 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 2008 Ford Fiesta is newer by 23 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 46 more horse power than 2008 Ford Fiesta. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 602 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, 2008 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2008 Ford Fiesta (204 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Fiesta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2008 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 1700 | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1559 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1145 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2490 mm |
