2006 BMW 523 vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 2006 BMW 523 is newer by 8 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1998 Opel Signum. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 523 weights approximately 66 kg more than 1998 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 BMW 523 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 2006 BMW 523. 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, 2006 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Signum. (185 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 BMW 523 | 1998 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 523 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1632 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
