1981 Mitsubishi Debonair 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 Mitsubishi Debonair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. (111 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 305 kg more than 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair 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 Mitsubishi Debonair. 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 (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair. (207 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Mitsubishi Debonair | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mitsubishi | Opel |
| Model | Debonair | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2555 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 111 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
