The Skoda Octavia Combi 1.9 TDI 4x4 with a Sterling Eccles Amethyst with an actual weight of 1436 kg is in general a good match and suitable for all journeys on all kinds of roads.
The motor preformance of the Skoda is in general more than sufficient. But the weight of the Sterling with a normally distributed User Payload (200 kg in the caravan and 200 kg in the car including passengers), is quite heavy. Proper and careful loading is essential and don't drive too fast. Remember to load your caravan correctly, insuring that the noseweight of the caravan is sufficient and the weight is distributed properly!
Flat roads
Towing Performance
179
148
Mountains
Risk of snaking
169
129
Weight ratio: 83% (94% of kerbweight)
1436 kg
1735 kg
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The engine's performance is generally fairly good on flat roads (performance score to compare 179 points).
Speeds of 67 mph (108 km/h) to 73 mph (118 km/h) are often quite possible.
There is only moderate power at low engine speeds (score to compare 148 points).
Slightly higher revs (2000 rpm) may be necessary under normal conditions on flat roads.
Acceleration from 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) is theoretically possible in 26.5 sec.
In the mountains the performance is generally fairly good (score to compare 169 points).
No problems are to be expected on steep mountain roads. Hill starts are possible on steep slopes up to 14%, but do require some experience from the driver.
On motorway inclines the speed drops despite high revs.
A speed of 55 mph (89 km/h) is usually possible on most motorway inclines.
Weight
The towing limit of the Skoda is sufficient (check this in your vehicle documents).
If you passed your driving test after 1 January 1997, you will need a B+E (or B96) driving license.
Weight ratio between the laden caravan and the loaded car is 83%. Common in the UK: the weight ratio between the laden caravan and the kerbweight of the car is 94%.
The risk of snaking at higher speeds, strong side winds and thoughtless driving exist. Even if the combination normally feels stable, the forces by deflection side to side are so great that it could be dangerous. Only if the driver has knowledge of and experience in driving a caravan it should be safe to drive. Proper and careful loading is essential! An electronic stability system in the car and / or on the caravan is recommended.
Recommended noseweight is 80 kg.
Safe speed up to 56 mph (90 km/h).
Stability and safety score to compare is 129 points.
If the caravan starts to snake you should reduce your speed and slow down directly! Lift your feet off the accelerator and brake gradually. Hold the steering wheel into a fixed position.
Conclusion
Performance is more than sufficient.
Proper and careful loading is still important!
It's a perfect match!
Influence of User Payload on stability
Weight distribution and noseweight are vital in obtaining a stable caravan.