1981 Holden Commodore vs. 2006 Opel Signum
To start off, 2006 Opel Signum is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Signum (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 375 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Holden Commodore 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 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Signum (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (141 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Holden Commodore | 2006 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Holden | Opel |
| Model | Commodore | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1892 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 141 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2840 mm |
