1981 Volkswagen Santana vs. 2000 Opel Signum
To start off, 2000 Opel Signum is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Santana would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Opel Signum (123 HP @ 3250 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (53 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Opel Signum weights approximately 585 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 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, 2000 Opel Signum (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. (100 Nm @ 2300 RPM). This means 2000 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Santana. 2000 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1981 Volkswagen Santana has manual transmission. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Santana | 2000 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Santana | Signum |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2300 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 23.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1025 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
