1991 BMW 518 vs. 2008 Opel Signum
To start off, 2008 Opel Signum is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 BMW 518 would be higher. At 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1991 BMW 518. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1991 BMW 518. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Signum weights approximately 510 kg more than 1991 BMW 518. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 BMW 518 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 1991 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 205 more torque (in Nm) than 1991 BMW 518. (165 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1991 BMW 518.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 BMW 518 | 2008 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 518 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1766 cc | 2957 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
