1963 BMW 502 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 BMW 502. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 BMW 502 would be higher. At 3,168 cc (8 cylinders), 1963 BMW 502 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1963 BMW 502. (158 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1963 BMW 502. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 5 kg more than 1963 BMW 502. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1963 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 1963 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 (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 BMW 502. (240 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 BMW 502.
Compare all specifications:
| 1963 BMW 502 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 502 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1963 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1490 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 58 L |
