2006 Opel Signum vs. 1996 Volvo S40
To start off, 2006 Opel Signum is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volvo S40. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volvo S40 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1996 Volvo S40. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1996 Volvo S40. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 350 kg more than 1996 Volvo S40. 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, 2006 Opel Signum (266 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 102 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volvo S40. (164 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volvo S40.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Signum | 1996 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Signum | S40 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1731 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 173 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 164 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 58 L |
