2003 Opel Signum vs. 1974 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Kadett would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (209 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 1974 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 755 kg more than 1974 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Opel Kadett 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 1974 Opel Kadett. 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 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 1974 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Signum | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 43 L |
