2006 Opel Signum vs. 1997 Volkswagen W12
To start off, 2006 Opel Signum is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen W12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen W12 would be higher. At 5,600 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen W12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (420 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 2006 Opel Signum. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen W12 should accelerate faster than 2006 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 410 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen W12.
Because 1997 Volkswagen W12 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 1997 Volkswagen W12. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1997 Volkswagen W12 (719 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 418 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Opel Signum. (301 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen W12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Opel Signum. 1997 Volkswagen W12 has automatic transmission and 2006 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 2006 Opel Signum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Volkswagen W12 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Signum | 1997 Volkswagen W12 | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Signum | W12 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 5600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | W |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 420 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 719 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 90.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 321 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1110 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2550 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
