2004 Caterham 7 vs. 2006 Opel Signum
To start off, 2006 Opel Signum is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Caterham 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Caterham 7 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Caterham 7 (200 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2006 Opel Signum. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Caterham 7 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 1130 kg more than 2004 Caterham 7.
Because 2004 Caterham 7 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 2004 Caterham 7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Caterham 7. (224 Nm @ 5750 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Caterham 7. 2006 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 2004 Caterham 7 has manual transmission. 2004 Caterham 7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Caterham 7 | 2006 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Caterham | Opel |
| Model | 7 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 540 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3310 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2840 mm |
