1999 Opel Signum vs. 1974 Opel Rekord
To start off, 1999 Opel Signum is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1974 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Signum weights approximately 545 kg more than 1974 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Opel Rekord 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 1974 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Signum | 1974 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Signum | Rekord |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
