1996 Ford Contour vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Contour 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 (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 428 kg more than 1996 Ford Contour. 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, 2003 Opel Signum (371 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Contour | Signum |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 82 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
