2002 Caterham Superlight R vs. 1990 Saab 9000
To start off, 2002 Caterham Superlight R is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Saab 9000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Saab 9000 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1990 Saab 9000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (190 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1990 Saab 9000. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Caterham Superlight R should accelerate faster than 1990 Saab 9000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Saab 9000 weights approximately 815 kg more than 2002 Caterham Superlight R.
Because 2002 Caterham Superlight R 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 2002 Caterham Superlight R. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1990 Saab 9000, 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, 2002 Caterham Superlight R (203 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Saab 9000. (172 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Caterham Superlight R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Saab 9000.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Caterham Superlight R | 1990 Saab 9000 | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | Superlight R | 9000 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1990 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.1:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 192 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 490 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2720 mm |
