2003 Opel Signum vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 6,547 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (285 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2003 Opel Signum. (144 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Pontiac Firebird should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 90 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
Because 1974 Pontiac Firebird 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 Pontiac Firebird. 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, 1974 Pontiac Firebird (421 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Signum. (240 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1974 Pontiac Firebird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Signum | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 6547 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 285 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 421 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 104.7 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 95.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1686 kg | 1596 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 76 L |
