2003 Opel Signum vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (152 HP) has 103 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 620 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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 (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 138 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1979 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 1979 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Signum | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 45 L |
