1981 Suzuki Alto 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 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 137 more horse power than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 1060 kg more than 1981 Suzuki Alto. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Suzuki Alto. (60 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Suzuki Alto | 2006 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Suzuki | Opel |
| Model | Alto | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 796 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3300 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2160 mm | 2840 mm |
