1956 BMW 501 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 BMW 501. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 BMW 501 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 (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1956 BMW 501. (138 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1956 BMW 501. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 205 kg more than 1956 BMW 501. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 BMW 501. 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 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 BMW 501. (222 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 BMW 501.
Compare all specifications:
1956 BMW 501 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | 501 | Signum |
Year Released | 1956 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3166 cc | 3173 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 208 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 222 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2740 mm |