1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2008 Volvo S60
To start off, 2008 Volvo S60 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2008 Volvo S60 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volvo S60 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volvo S60 should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volvo S60 weights approximately 958 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, 2008 Volvo S60, 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 Volvo S60 (230 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Volvo S60 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2008 Volvo S60 | |
| Make | Caterham | Volvo |
| Model | 1700 | S60 |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5900 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1501 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2720 mm |
