1959 Jaguar XK vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Jaguar XK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Jaguar XK would be higher. At 3,781 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Jaguar XK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1959 Jaguar XK (220 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2001 Opel Signum. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1959 Jaguar XK should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 240 kg more than 1959 Jaguar XK.
Because 1959 Jaguar XK 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 Jaguar XK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Jaguar XK. (325 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Jaguar XK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1959 Jaguar XK | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Jaguar | Opel |
| Model | XK | Signum |
| Year Released | 1959 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3781 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 220 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 106 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2710 mm |
