1974 BMW 518 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 518 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 (207 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1974 BMW 518. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1974 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 373 kg more than 1974 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 BMW 518 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 1974 BMW 518. 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 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 BMW 518. (146 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 BMW 518. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1974 BMW 518 has manual transmission. 1974 BMW 518 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:
| 1974 BMW 518 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 518 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1974 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
