2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2002 Opel Signum
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Opel Signum would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2002 Opel Signum. (148 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 42 kg more than 2002 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Opel Signum (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda RX-8 | 2002 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 223 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7.2 seconds | 10.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 60 L |
