1959 Alvis TD vs. 1999 Opel Signum
To start off, 1999 Opel Signum is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Alvis TD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Alvis TD would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 91 more horse power than 1959 Alvis TD. (117 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1959 Alvis TD. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Signum weights approximately 185 kg more than 1959 Alvis TD. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Alvis TD 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 1959 Alvis TD. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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. Let's talk about torque, 1999 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Alvis TD. (221 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Alvis TD.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Alvis TD | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Alvis | Opel |
| Model | TD | Signum |
| Year Released | 1959 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 117 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 169 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 52 L |
