1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Saab 900 (108 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (84 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Saab 900 weights approximately 670 kg more than 1991 Caterham Super 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Caterham Super 7 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 1991 Caterham Super 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900, 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, 1980 Saab 900 (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (124 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1980 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 Caterham Super 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Caterham Super 7 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | Super 7 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 84 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2530 mm |
