2009 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 315 more horse power than 1998 Opel Signum. (99 HP @ 3120 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 60 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 BMW M3 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 M3. 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 M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Signum. (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW M3 | 1998 Opel Signum | |
Make | BMW | Opel |
Model | M3 | Signum |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1909 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 414 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 3120 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 12.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
Top Speed | 245 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1595 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |