1988 BMW Z1 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 Z1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW Z1 would be higher. At 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW Z1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW Z1 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2003 Opel Signum. (152 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW Z1 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 315 kg more than 1988 BMW Z1.
Because 1988 BMW Z1 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 Z1. 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, 1988 BMW Z1 (230 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Signum. (220 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1988 BMW Z1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Signum. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW Z1 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW Z1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW Z1 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | Z1 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 152 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2840 mm |
