1971 Austin 3 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Signum
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Signum is newer by 32 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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall Signum (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1971 Austin 3. (123 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall Signum should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Austin 3 weights approximately 40 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall Signum.
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, 2003 Vauxhall 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 Vauxhall Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 3. (218 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 3 | 2003 Vauxhall Signum | |
| Make | Austin | Vauxhall |
| Model | 3 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2910 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1450 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 |
