1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2007 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2007 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Caterham C21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Caterham C21 would be higher. At 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Saab 05-Sep (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 985 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, 2007 Saab 05-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, 2007 Saab 05-Sep (350 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2007 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | C21 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1908 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2710 mm |
