2000 Caterham C21 vs. 1998 Saab 03-Sep
To start off, 2000 Caterham C21 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Saab 03-Sep. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Saab 03-Sep would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Saab 03-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Saab 03-Sep (152 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2000 Caterham C21. (115 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Saab 03-Sep should accelerate faster than 2000 Caterham C21. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Saab 03-Sep weights approximately 690 kg more than 2000 Caterham C21. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2000 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 2000 Caterham C21. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Saab 03-Sep (219 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Caterham C21. (145 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Saab 03-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Caterham C21.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Caterham C21 | 1998 Saab 03-Sep | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | C21 | 03-Sep |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 219 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 650 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1060 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2610 mm |
