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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 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 548 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, 1980 Saab 900 (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1980 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21.
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 | 1588 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 654 kg | 1202 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2720 mm |
