2005 Opel Signum vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Signum (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Signum weights approximately 322 kg more than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. 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 (165 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Signum | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Signum | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1482 kg | 1160 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2480 mm |
