2004 Caterham 7 vs. 1997 Saturn SL
To start off, 2004 Caterham 7 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Saturn SL would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Caterham 7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1997 Saturn SL. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Saturn SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Saturn SL weights approximately 515 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Saturn SL, 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, 2004 Caterham 7 (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Saturn SL. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Caterham 7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Saturn SL.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Caterham 7 | 1997 Saturn SL | |
Make | Caterham | Saturn |
Model | 7 | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2261 cc | 1899 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 158 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1055 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1400 mm |