1974 Volvo 244 vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1974 Volvo 244. (108 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1974 Volvo 244. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 326 kg more than 1974 Volvo 244. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 Volvo 244. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volvo 244. (170 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volvo 244. 2001 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1974 Volvo 244 has manual transmission. 1974 Volvo 244 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Volvo 244 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Volvo | Opel |
| Model | 244 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2127 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1284 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 52 L |
