1986 Caterham 1700 vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
To start off, 1986 Caterham 1700 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (219 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1986 Caterham 1700. (168 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1986 Caterham 1700.
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 | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
| Make | Caterham | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | 1700 | 420 |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 4196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 219 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 188 km/hour | 214 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3390 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1050 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2460 mm |
