1988 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Signum
To start off, 2003 Vauxhall Signum is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (192 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. (175 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Signum weights approximately 154 kg more than 1988 BMW M3.
Because 1988 BMW M3 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 M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall 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 Vauxhall Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (230 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2003 Vauxhall Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | M3 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2302 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 192 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1296 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
