1971 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Opel Signum
To start off, 2002 Opel Signum is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1971 BMW 3. (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1971 BMW 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Signum weights approximately 230 kg more than 1971 BMW 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2002 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2840 mm |
