2005 Opel Signum vs. 1974 Renault 12
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,908 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1974 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1974 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Signum weights approximately 610 kg more than 1974 Renault 12. 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, 2005 Opel Signum (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 169 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Renault 12. (96 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Signum | 1974 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Opel | Renault |
| Model | Signum | 12 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2450 mm |
