1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2010 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster 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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2010 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2010 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Caterham | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1700 | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4554 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1458 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2578 mm |
