1988 BMW M3 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 M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,303 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW M3 (221 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 2004 Opel Signum. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 360 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, 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 (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 BMW M3. (245 Nm @ 4750 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW M3 | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2303 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 221 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1510 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
