2008 Opel Signum vs. 1980 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2008 Opel Signum is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1980 Opel Ascona. (57 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Signum weights approximately 600 kg more than 1980 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 Opel Ascona 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 1980 Opel Ascona. 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 (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 190 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Ascona. (110 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Opel Signum | 1980 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Signum | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 86.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 22.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.1 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
