1977 Fiat 131 vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 1998 Opel Signum is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Signum (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Fiat 131 weights approximately 165 kg more than 1998 Opel Signum.
Because 1977 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 1977 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 (185 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 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 1977 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 1998 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1977 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2530 mm |
