1979 Opel Kadett vs. 2006 Opel Signum
To start off, 2006 Opel Signum is newer by 27 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 161 more horse power than 1979 Opel Kadett. (47 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 820 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, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Signum (301 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Kadett. (71 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Kadett | Signum |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 993 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 47 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 88 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 | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3900 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1590 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 10.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 60 L |
