1996 BMW 523 vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1996 BMW 523. (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 125 kg more than 1996 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 1996 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW 523. (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW 523. 2001 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1996 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 1996 BMW 523 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW 523 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 523 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 82 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
