1997 BMW 850 vs. 2002 Opel Signum
To start off, 2002 Opel Signum is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW 850. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW 850 would be higher. At 5,379 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 BMW 850 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW 850 (329 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 229 more horse power than 2002 Opel Signum. (100 HP @ 3120 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW 850 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 BMW 850 weights approximately 350 kg more than 2002 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 BMW 850 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 1997 BMW 850. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1997 BMW 850 (490 Nm) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Signum. (230 Nm). This means 1997 BMW 850 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Signum. 1997 BMW 850 has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Signum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 BMW 850 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW 850 | 2002 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 850 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5379 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 329 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3120 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 249 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1945 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2610 mm |
