1996 Opel Astra vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Opel Astra. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Opel Astra would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Opel Astra. (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1996 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 410 kg more than 1996 Opel Astra. 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, 2004 Opel Signum (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Opel Astra. (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Signum |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2840 mm |
