1974 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 1998 Opel Signum is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Signum (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Signum weights approximately 515 kg more than 1974 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Fiat 131 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 1974 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Signum (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Fiat 131 | 1998 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 965 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
