1981 Austin Maxi vs. 2005 Opel Signum
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Austin Maxi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Austin Maxi would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Signum (124 HP @ 3250 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1981 Austin Maxi. (91 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Austin Maxi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Signum weights approximately 625 kg more than 1981 Austin Maxi. 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, 2005 Opel Signum (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Austin Maxi. (141 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Austin Maxi.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Austin Maxi | 2005 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Austin | Opel |
| Model | Maxi | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 91 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.8 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 163 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 985 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
