1981 Fiat 127 vs. 1999 Opel Signum
To start off, 1999 Opel Signum is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 127. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 127 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Signum (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 127. (44 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 127. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Signum weights approximately 381 kg more than 1981 Fiat 127. 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, 1999 Opel Signum (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 127. (65 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 127.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 127 | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 127 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 903 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 65 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 65 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67.7 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 705 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3650 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2580 mm |
