2000 Caterham 21 vs. 2003 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 03-Sep is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Caterham 21. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Caterham 21 would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Caterham 21 (230 HP @ 8600 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. (202 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Caterham 21 should accelerate faster than 2003 Saab 03-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 1115 kg more than 2000 Caterham 21.
Because 2000 Caterham 21 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 2000 Caterham 21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Saab 03-Sep (280 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham 21. (210 Nm @ 7200 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham 21. 2003 Saab 03-Sep has automatic transmission and 2000 Caterham 21 has manual transmission. 2000 Caterham 21 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Saab 03-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham 21 | 2003 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | 21 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 202 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 7200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 61 L |
