1983 Opel Senator vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Senator would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (207 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1983 Opel Senator. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 293 kg more than 1983 Opel Senator. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Opel Senator 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 1983 Opel Senator. 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 (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Senator. (186 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Opel Senator | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Senator | Signum |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2840 mm |
