1972 BMW 520 vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,991 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 BMW 520 (150 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2001 Opel Signum. (123 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 35 kg more than 1972 BMW 520.
Because 1972 BMW 520 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 1972 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 1972 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Signum. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1972 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 BMW 520 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 12.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.2 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
