2009 BMW 523 vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1998 Opel Signum. (99 HP @ 3120 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Signum weights approximately 30 kg more than 2009 BMW 523.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 523. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2009 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Signum. (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 523 | 1998 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 523 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3120 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1565 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
