1988 BMW 525 vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 16 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1988 BMW 525. (168 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW 525. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 135 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, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW 525. (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW 525. 2004 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 525 | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 525 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2443 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 52 L |
