2003 BMW M3 vs. 2001 Opel Signum

To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Signum would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 198 more horse power than 2001 Opel Signum. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 13 kg more than 2003 BMW M3.

Because 2003 BMW M3 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 2003 BMW M3. 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Signum. (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Signum.

Compare all specifications:

2003 BMW M3 2001 Opel Signum
Make BMW Opel
Model M3 Signum
Year Released 2003 2001
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3168 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 342 HP 144 HP
Engine RPM 7900 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 350 Nm 220 Nm
Torque RPM 4900 RPM 2000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 87 mm 82 mm
Engine Stroke Size 91 mm 90.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.5:1 18.0:1
Top Speed 259 km/hour 209 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 4.9 seconds 10.5 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1385 kg 1398 kg
Vehicle Length 4500 mm 4640 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2850 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 63 L 60 L