2002 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Signum would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1998 Opel Signum. (99 HP @ 3120 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Signum weights approximately 205 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Signum. (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda RX-8 | 1998 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2615 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3120 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 229 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
