1991 Caterham Super 7 vs. 1989 Saab 9000
To start off, 1991 Caterham Super 7 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Saab 9000 (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (120 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1989 Saab 9000 should accelerate faster than 1991 Caterham Super 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Saab 9000 weights approximately 940 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, 1989 Saab 9000, 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, 1989 Saab 9000 (212 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 Caterham Super 7. (143 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1989 Saab 9000 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 | 1989 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | Super 7 | 9000 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 143 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 203 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2670 mm |
