2004 Opel Signum vs. 1974 Pontiac Firebird
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Pontiac Firebird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Pontiac Firebird would be higher. At 4,093 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Pontiac Firebird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (108 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 90 kg more than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Pontiac Firebird 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 1974 Pontiac Firebird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Signum (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Pontiac Firebird. (237 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Pontiac Firebird.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Signum | 1974 Pontiac Firebird | |
| Make | Opel | Pontiac |
| Model | Signum | Firebird |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 4093 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 237 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2750 mm |
