1971 BMW 3 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 32 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 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (180 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Opel Signum. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 290 kg more than 1971 BMW 3.
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, 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 (371 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 BMW 3. (255 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 BMW 3. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 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:
| 1971 BMW 3 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1971 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2986 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 255 Nm | 371 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 221 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2700 mm |
