2001 Opel Signum vs. 1996 Volvo 850
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo 850 would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Volvo 850. (125 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo 850. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 275 kg more than 1996 Volvo 850. 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 (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo 850. (170 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo 850.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Signum | 1996 Volvo 850 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Signum | 850 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3173 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 58 L |
