2001 Opel Signum vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 20 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 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (125 HP @ 3250 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 560 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, 2001 Opel Signum (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Signum | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Signum | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 40 L |
