2003 Opel Signum vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (209 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 90 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Volkswagen Passat is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Opel Signum. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat will offer significantly more control. 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 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Passat. (206 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Signum | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 2327 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 209 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
