2009 Audi A8 vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 2009 Audi A8 is newer by 11 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 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Audi A8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A8 (229 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1998 Opel Signum. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A8 weights approximately 264 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 2009 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Opel Signum. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Audi A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 265 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Signum. (185 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Signum. 2009 Audi A8 has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Signum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A8 | 1998 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A8 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 229 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 243 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
