2005 Opel Signum vs. 1978 Opel Kadett
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Kadett. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Kadett 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 122 more horse power than 1978 Opel Kadett. (51 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Kadett. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Signum weights approximately 770 kg more than 1978 Opel Kadett. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Kadett 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 Kadett. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Opel Signum (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 185 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Kadett. (80 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Kadett.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Signum | 1978 Opel Kadett | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Signum | Kadett |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1908 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 265 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1590 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 43 L |
