1985 Skoda L vs. 1998 Skoda Octavia
To start off, 1998 Skoda Octavia is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Skoda L. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Skoda L would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Skoda Octavia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Skoda Octavia (74 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1985 Skoda L. (62 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Skoda Octavia should accelerate faster than 1985 Skoda L. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Skoda Octavia weights approximately 325 kg more than 1985 Skoda L. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Skoda L 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 Skoda L. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Skoda Octavia, 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, 1998 Skoda Octavia (134 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Skoda L. (103 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 1998 Skoda Octavia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Skoda L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Skoda L | 1998 Skoda Octavia | |
| Make | Skoda | Skoda |
| Model | L | Octavia |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1289 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 62 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 103 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2850 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 890 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4170 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2520 mm |
