1996 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2005 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Caterham 7 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2005 Saab 05-Sep. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 1178 kg more than 1996 Caterham 7.
Because 1996 Caterham 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 1996 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Saab 05-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, 2005 Saab 05-Sep (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Caterham 7. (156 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2005 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Caterham 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Caterham 7 | 2005 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | 7 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 478 kg | 1656 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 36 L | 75 L |
