2002 Opel Signum vs. 1981 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2002 Opel Signum is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 1,892 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Signum (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1981 Holden Commodore. (78 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1981 Holden Commodore. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Signum weights approximately 322 kg more than 1981 Holden Commodore. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Holden Commodore 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 1981 Holden Commodore. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Signum (165 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Holden Commodore. (140 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Holden Commodore. 1981 Holden Commodore has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Signum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Holden Commodore will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Opel Signum | 1981 Holden Commodore | |
Make | Opel | Holden |
Model | Signum | Commodore |
Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1892 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 78 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Torque | 165 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1160 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4710 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2670 mm |