1997 Volkswagen Golf vs. 2006 Opel Signum
To start off, 2006 Opel Signum is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (148 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 345 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (301 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (220 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Volkswagen Golf | 2006 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Opel |
| Model | Golf | Signum |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 5 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1265 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
