1981 Mazda 121 vs. 2005 Opel Signum
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Mazda 121. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mazda 121 would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Signum (99 HP @ 3120 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1981 Mazda 121. (86 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Mazda 121. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Signum weights approximately 465 kg more than 1981 Mazda 121. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mazda 121 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 Mazda 121. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Signum (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mazda 121. (161 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mazda 121.
Compare all specifications:
1981 Mazda 121 | 2005 Opel Signum | |
Make | Mazda | Opel |
Model | 121 | Signum |
Year Released | 1981 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1993 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3120 RPM |
Torque | 161 Nm | 230 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 90 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 1595 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2740 mm |