1981 Ford Capri 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 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Capri would be higher. At 2,792 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1981 Ford Capri. (158 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 390 kg more than 1981 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Capri 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 Ford Capri. 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 44 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Capri. (221 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Ford Capri | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Capri | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2792 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1170 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |
