2003 Opel Signum vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 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 104 more horse power than 1978 Renault 18. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 543 kg more than 1978 Renault 18. 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 (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 18. (160 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 18.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Signum | 18 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3173 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1067 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 53 L |
