1971 Austin 3 vs. 2002 Opel Signum
To start off, 2002 Opel Signum is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 3 would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Signum weights approximately 120 kg more than 1971 Austin 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Austin 3 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 1971 Austin 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2002 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
