1971 Fiat 850 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 Fiat 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Fiat 850 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Signum (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1971 Fiat 850. (51 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1971 Fiat 850.
Because 1971 Fiat 850 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 Fiat 850. 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 (250 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Fiat 850. (69 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Fiat 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Fiat 850 | 2002 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 847 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 69 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 153 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2710 mm |
