2001 Opel Signum vs. 1973 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1973 Opel Rekord. (66 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 333 kg more than 1973 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Opel Rekord. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Signum (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Rekord. (120 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Signum | 1973 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Signum | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 120 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2680 mm |
