1997 Caterham C21 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 1997 Caterham C21 is newer by 17 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Caterham C21 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (108 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Saab 900 weights approximately 490 kg more than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 1997 Caterham C21 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 1997 Caterham C21. 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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | C21 | 900 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2530 mm |
