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 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 111 more horse power than 1974 Fiat 131. (64 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 610 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 (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Fiat 131. (102 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 | 1297 cc | 2958 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 64 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 102 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 | 965 kg | 1575 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2840 mm |