1981 Fiat 131 vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 23 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 103 more horse power than 1981 Fiat 131. (70 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat 131. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 510 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, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Signum (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 157 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat 131. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat 131.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat 131 | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 131 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1367 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1560 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 |
