2008 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Signum would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2003 Opel Signum. (99 HP @ 3120 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 291 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
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, 2003 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 Opel Signum (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 3120 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1620 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.2 L/100km | 4.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 5.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 60 L |
