2008 Opel Signum vs. 1978 Mazda 626
To start off, 2008 Opel Signum is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 626 would be higher. At 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Signum (153 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1978 Mazda 626. (93 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1978 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Signum weights approximately 540 kg more than 1978 Mazda 626. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mazda 626 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 Mazda 626. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Signum (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 626. (150 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 626. 1978 Mazda 626 has automatic transmission and 2008 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 2008 Opel Signum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Mazda 626 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Signum | 1978 Mazda 626 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Signum | 626 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2197 cc | 1768 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94.6 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1535 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2520 mm |
