1997 Buick Century vs. 1985 Caterham 1700
To start off, 1997 Buick Century is newer by 12 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 3,135 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Buick Century is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Buick Century (165 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Buick Century should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Buick Century weights approximately 977 kg more than 1985 Caterham 1700. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1997 Buick Century, 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, 1997 Buick Century (251 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1997 Buick Century will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700. 1997 Buick Century has automatic transmission and 1985 Caterham 1700 has manual transmission. 1985 Caterham 1700 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Buick Century will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Buick Century | 1985 Caterham 1700 | |
Make | Buick | Caterham |
Model | Century | 1700 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3135 cc | 1692 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 165 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 251 Nm | 165 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 83.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 77.6 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 543 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4950 mm | 3400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1580 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1090 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2240 mm |