1979 Fiat 131 vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Fiat 131 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1979 Fiat 131. (71 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1979 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 188 kg more than 1979 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Fiat 131. 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 (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Fiat 131. (152 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Fiat 131 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 71 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2850 mm |
