1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2010 Ford C-Max
To start off, 2010 Ford C-Max is newer by 25 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, 2010 Ford C-Max (150 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Ford C-Max should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Ford C-Max weights approximately 1007 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, 2010 Ford C-Max, 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, 2010 Ford C-Max (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Ford C-Max will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2010 Ford C-Max | |
| Make | Caterham | Ford |
| Model | 1700 | C-Max |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 7 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1828 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1684 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2788 mm |
