2001 Opel Signum vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2001 Opel Signum. (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 370 kg more than 1981 BMW M1.
Because 1981 BMW M1 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 1981 BMW M1. 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 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 BMW M1.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Opel Signum | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Signum | M1 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 93.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.4 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 116 L |
