1999 Opel Signum vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1999 Opel Signum is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Signum (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Signum weights approximately 72 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1999 Opel Signum (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Opel Signum | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Signum | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1999 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
