2003 Opel Signum vs. 1976 Renault 12
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 12 would be higher. At 2,172 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (115 HP @ 3000 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1976 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 629 kg more than 1976 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, 2003 Opel Signum (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 186 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 1976 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Signum | 12 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2172 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
