1972 Fiat 500 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (144 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1972 Fiat 500. (18 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1972 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 1176 kg more than 1972 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Fiat 500 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 1972 Fiat 500. 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 (240 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 212 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Fiat 500. (28 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Fiat 500.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Fiat 500 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 499 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 18 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 28 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 67.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 510 kg | 1686 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 22 L | 58 L |
