1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2008 Renault Scenic
To start off, 2008 Renault Scenic 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Renault Scenic is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2008 Renault Scenic. (133 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2008 Renault Scenic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Renault Scenic weights approximately 932 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 Renault Scenic, 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 Renault Scenic (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Renault Scenic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2008 Renault Scenic | |
| Make | Caterham | Renault |
| Model | 1700 | Scenic |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 133 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 82.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 195 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1630 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2690 mm |
