1998 Caterham C21 vs. 1979 Saab 900
To start off, 1998 Caterham C21 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Saab 900 (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Saab 900 weights approximately 600 kg more than 1998 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1979 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, 1979 Saab 900 (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Caterham C21 | 1979 Saab 900 | |
Make | Caterham | Saab |
Model | C21 | 900 |
Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 115 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 146 Nm | 236 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1250 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4750 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2530 mm |