1979 Opel Kadett vs. 2005 Opel Signum
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Signum (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Signum weights approximately 692 kg more than 1979 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Opel Kadett 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 Opel Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Signum (165 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Kadett | 2005 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Signum |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 51 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 88.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1482 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 60 L |
