1949 Fiat 500 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 54 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1949 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1949 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 1060 kg more than 1949 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1949 Fiat 500 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 1949 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum, 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. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1949 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1949 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1949 Fiat 500 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1949 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3250 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1290 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 60 L |
