1998 Mazda 323 vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (70 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 223 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (130 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1994 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 70 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 130 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
