1997 Caterham C21 vs. 2011 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2011 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 14 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. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Saab 03-Sep (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1997 Caterham C21. (138 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1997 Caterham C21.
Because 2011 Saab 03-Sep is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Caterham C21. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Saab 03-Sep will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Saab 03-Sep (299 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Caterham C21. (153 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2011 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Caterham C21. 2011 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1997 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1997 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Caterham C21 | 2011 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | C21 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 153 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4689 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1529 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2675 mm |
