2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2005 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2005 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,290 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (251 HP @ 8000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2005 Saab 05-Sep. (182 HP @ 1800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2005 Saab 05-Sep. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 1055 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, 2005 Saab 05-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, 2005 Saab 05-Sep (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2005 Saab 05-Sep has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Saab 05-Sep will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2005 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Caterham | Saab |
| Model | 7 | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2290 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 470 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 810 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2710 mm |
