1975 BMW 520 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 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 BMW 520 would be higher. At 2,171 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 123 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Signum weights approximately 315 kg more than 1975 BMW 520.
Because 1975 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 1975 BMW 520. 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 (271 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 BMW 520. (172 Nm @ 4350 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 BMW 520. 1999 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1975 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 1975 BMW 520 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 BMW 520 | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 520 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4350 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 201 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12 seconds | 11.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 61 L |
