1952 BMW 501 vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 52 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 BMW 501 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1952 BMW 501. (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1952 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 275 kg more than 1952 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 BMW 501 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 1952 BMW 501. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1952 BMW 501 | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 501 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1952 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1971 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 66 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 96 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.8:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1285 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
