2003 Opel Signum vs. 1985 Volvo 740
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volvo 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volvo 740 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Volvo 740 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2003 Opel Signum. (152 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Volvo 740 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 235 kg more than 1985 Volvo 740.
Because 1985 Volvo 740 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 1985 Volvo 740. 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, 1985 Volvo 740 (240 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Signum. (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1985 Volvo 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Signum. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1985 Volvo 740 has manual transmission. 1985 Volvo 740 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 | 1985 Volvo 740 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Signum | 740 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1986 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 152 HP | 156 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2780 mm |
