1979 Lancia Beta vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Lancia Beta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Lancia Beta 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 @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1979 Lancia Beta. (81 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1979 Lancia Beta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 670 kg more than 1979 Lancia Beta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 262 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Lancia Beta. (108 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Lancia Beta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Lancia Beta | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Lancia | Opel |
| Model | Beta | Signum |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 70.8 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2360 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 60 L |
