1997 Rover 400 vs. 1985 Skoda L
To start off, 1997 Rover 400 is newer by 12 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 1,589 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Rover 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Rover 400 (110 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1985 Skoda L. (62 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Rover 400 should accelerate faster than 1985 Skoda L.
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, 1997 Rover 400, 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 Rover 400 (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Skoda L. (103 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Skoda L.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Rover 400 | 1985 Skoda L | |
| Make | Rover | Skoda |
| Model | 400 | L |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1589 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 110 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2410 mm |
