2008 BMW 318 vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 2008 BMW 318 is newer by 10 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 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 2008 BMW 318. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Signum weights approximately 171 kg more than 2008 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 318 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 BMW 318. 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, 2008 BMW 318 (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Signum. (185 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 318 | 1998 Opel Signum | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Signum |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 218 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 60 L |
