1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2004 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2004 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Caterham C21 would be higher. Both 1997 Caterham C21 and 2004 Saab 03-Sep are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Caterham C21 (250 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Caterham C21 should accelerate faster than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 822 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, 2004 Saab 03-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, 1997 Caterham C21 (252 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Saab 03-Sep. (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Caterham C21 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Saab 03-Sep.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2004 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | C21 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 250 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 252 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 690 kg | 1512 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2700 mm |
