1994 Caterham Seven vs. 1985 Caterham 1700
To start off, 1994 Caterham Seven is newer by 9 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 1,998 cc, 1994 Caterham Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Caterham Seven (165 HP) has 30 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Caterham Seven should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Caterham 1700 weights approximately 3 kg more than 1994 Caterham Seven.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1994 Caterham Seven (203 Nm) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm). This means 1994 Caterham Seven will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Caterham Seven | 1985 Caterham 1700 | |
| Make | Caterham | Caterham |
| Model | Seven | 1700 |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1692 cc |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 83.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 194 km/hour | 179 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 543 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1090 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2240 mm |
