1961 Abarth 600 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Abarth 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Abarth 600 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1961 Abarth 600. (47 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1961 Abarth 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 940 kg more than 1961 Abarth 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Abarth 600 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 1961 Abarth 600. 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. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Opel Signum (166 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Abarth 600. (66 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Abarth 600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Abarth 600 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Abarth | Opel |
| Model | 600 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 66 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 595 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1390 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
