1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A 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 2,034 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Caterham 1700 (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. (134 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 2010 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 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, 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz A (185 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 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 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1700 | A |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2034 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 179 km/hour | 200 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 |
