1954 BMW 502 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 49 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 BMW 502 would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (207 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1954 BMW 502. (100 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1954 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 203 kg more than 1954 BMW 502. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1954 BMW 502 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 1954 BMW 502. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 BMW 502. (221 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 BMW 502. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1954 BMW 502 has manual transmission. 1954 BMW 502 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 BMW 502 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 502 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1954 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2578 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
