1998 Caterham C21 vs. 2009 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2009 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 11 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1998 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 1998 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 924 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, 2009 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, 2009 Saab 03-Sep (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Caterham C21. (146 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Caterham C21. 2009 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 1998 Caterham C21 has manual transmission. 1998 Caterham C21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Caterham C21 | 2009 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | C21 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| 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 | 115 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1574 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2680 mm |
