2003 Opel Signum vs. 1959 Volvo 120
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 44 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volvo 120. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volvo 120 would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1959 Volvo 120. (76 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1959 Volvo 120. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 615 kg more than 1959 Volvo 120. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Volvo 120 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 1959 Volvo 120. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1959 Volvo 120. (118 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1959 Volvo 120.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 1959 Volvo 120 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Signum | 120 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3173 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 118 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2610 mm |
