1976 Fiat 131 vs. 2002 Opel Signum
To start off, 2002 Opel Signum is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Signum (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1976 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1976 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Signum weights approximately 465 kg more than 1976 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 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 1976 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Signum (250 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Fiat 131. 2002 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1976 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1976 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Fiat 131 | 2002 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
