2003 Opel Signum vs. 1996 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (144 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 476 kg more than 1996 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 (240 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Passat. (140 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 1996 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Signum | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2198 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1686 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1620 mm |
