2002 Opel Signum vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Opel Signum is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Signum (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Signum weights approximately 585 kg more than 1973 Renault 12. 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, 2002 Opel Signum (250 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Opel Signum | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Signum | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 206 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 56 L |
