1974 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 29 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 1,910 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (75 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1974 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 520 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, 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 (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1585 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 975 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |
