1988 BMW 525 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,443 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 35 kg more than 1988 BMW 525. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 525 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 1988 BMW 525. 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 (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
