2004 Opel Signum vs. 1978 Opel Rekord
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Rekord. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Rekord would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (208 HP) has 108 more horse power than 1978 Opel Rekord. (100 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Rekord. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 475 kg more than 1978 Opel Rekord. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Rekord 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 1978 Opel Rekord. 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 (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Rekord. (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Rekord.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Signum | 1978 Opel Rekord | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Signum | Rekord |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 100 HP |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 65 L |
