2003 Caterham 7 vs. 1980 Saab 900
To start off, 2003 Caterham 7 is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Saab 900. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Saab 900 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Caterham 7 (160 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1980 Saab 900. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1980 Saab 900. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Saab 900 weights approximately 702 kg more than 2003 Caterham 7.
Because 2003 Caterham 7 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 2003 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900, 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 Caterham 7 (176 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Saab 900. (167 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Saab 900.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Caterham 7 | 1980 Saab 900 | |
Make | Caterham | Saab |
Model | 7 | 900 |
Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1985 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 118 HP |
Engine RPM | 7500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 176 Nm | 167 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 90 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 89.3 mm | 78 mm |
Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 167 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 500 kg | 1202 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2720 mm |