1975 BMW 316 vs. 1999 Opel Signum
To start off, 1999 Opel Signum is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Signum (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 59 more horse power than 1975 BMW 316. (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1975 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Signum weights approximately 16 kg more than 1975 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 BMW 316 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 1975 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Signum (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 316. (124 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 316 | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 316 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1573 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1070 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 60 L |
