1981 Nissan Laurel vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 1998 Opel Signum is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Laurel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Laurel would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Laurel is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Laurel. (123 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Laurel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Signum weights approximately 321 kg more than 1981 Nissan Laurel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Nissan Laurel 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 Nissan Laurel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1981 Nissan Laurel (222 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Signum. (185 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Laurel will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Nissan Laurel | 1998 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Laurel | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2753 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1245 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2840 mm |
