1985 Caterham 1700 vs. 2001 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2001 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 16 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (203 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1985 Caterham 1700. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1985 Caterham 1700. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 852 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, 2001 Saab 03-Sep, 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, 2001 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Caterham 1700. (165 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Caterham 1700.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Caterham 1700 | 2001 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | 1700 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1692 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 203 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.3 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 543 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1090 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2610 mm |
