Physical characteristics
Saber-toothed cats were larger than tigers, with some species reaching up to 11 feet long and weighing over 1,000 pounds. Tigers, on the other hand, typically measure between 8 and 10 feet long and weigh between 400 and 600 pounds. Saber-toothed cats also had longer, more powerful jaws than tigers, and their upper canine teeth could grow up to 7 inches long. These teeth were used to deliver a powerful, stabbing bite that could crush the bones of prey.
Hunting strategies
Saber-toothed cats were ambush predators that would lie in wait for their prey before pouncing. They would use their long, sharp claws to hold onto their prey while they used their canine teeth to deliver the killing blow. Tigers are also ambush predators, but they are more likely to stalk their prey before attacking. Tigers will typically use their claws to slash and tear at their prey, and they may also use their powerful jaws to crush the skull.
Conclusion
Based on their physical characteristics and hunting strategies, it is likely that saber-toothed cats would have been able to defeat tigers in a one-on-one fight. Saber-toothed cats were larger, stronger, and had more powerful teeth than tigers. They were also skilled ambush predators that would have been able to surprise their prey. However, it is important to remember that saber-toothed cats are extinct, so we can never know for certain if they could have defeated a tiger.