1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (152 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (111 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 460 kg more than 1981 Fiat 131. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Fiat 131 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 1981 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Signum (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (167 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Fiat 131 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
Make | Fiat | Opel |
Model | 131 | Signum |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 111 HP | 152 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1565 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2840 mm |