2004 Opel Signum vs. 1996 Volvo V40
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo V40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo V40 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Volvo V40. (138 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo V40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 330 kg more than 1996 Volvo V40. 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, 2004 Opel Signum (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo V40. (176 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo V40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Opel Signum | 1996 Volvo V40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Signum | V40 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 176 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 88.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2570 mm |
