1986 Caterham 1700 vs. 1966 Mercury Comet
To start off, 1986 Caterham 1700 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Mercury Comet. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Mercury Comet would be higher. At 3,279 cc (6 cylinders), 1966 Mercury Comet is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Caterham 1700 (168 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1966 Mercury Comet. (118 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Caterham 1700 should accelerate faster than 1966 Mercury Comet.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Caterham 1700 | 1966 Mercury Comet | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercury |
| Model | 1700 | Comet |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 3279 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1050 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2950 mm |
