1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 24 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. (108 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 2287 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A, 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
1985 Caterham 1700 | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | 1700 | A |
Year Released | 1985 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1991 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 250 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.0:1 |
Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2570 mm |