1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 987 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1700 | C |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2496 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 68.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
