2001 Opel Signum vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit 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 82 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (62 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 588 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 2001 Opel Signum (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (104 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Signum | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Signum | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1455 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 104 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1398 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2410 mm |
