1981 Fiat Ritmo vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Fiat Ritmo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Fiat Ritmo would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 750 kg more than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. 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, 2001 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 219 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. (81 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Fiat Ritmo. 2001 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1981 Fiat Ritmo has manual transmission. 1981 Fiat Ritmo will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Fiat Ritmo | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | Ritmo | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1049 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 81 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3940 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2640 mm |
