2008 BMW 523 vs. 2003 Vauxhall Signum
To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Vauxhall Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall Signum would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Vauxhall Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Vauxhall Signum (208 HP) has 33 more horse power than 2008 BMW 523. (175 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall Signum should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 523. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Vauxhall Signum weights approximately 202 kg more than 2008 BMW 523. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall 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 Vauxhall Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 523. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Vauxhall Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 523.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 523 | 2003 Vauxhall Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Vauxhall |
| Model | 523 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 208 HP |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1280 kg | 1482 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2840 mm |
