1981 Ford Falcon 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 Ford Falcon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Ford Falcon would be higher. At 3,273 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Ford Falcon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (144 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Ford Falcon. (109 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Ford Falcon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 316 kg more than 1981 Ford Falcon. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Ford Falcon 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 Falcon. 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 (240 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Ford Falcon. (228 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Ford Falcon.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Ford Falcon | 2003 Opel Signum | |
Make | Ford | Opel |
Model | Falcon | Signum |
Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3273 cc | 2198 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 109 HP | 144 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 228 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1686 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2640 mm |