1954 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1999 Opel Signum
To start off, 1999 Opel Signum is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1954 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,193 cc (6 cylinders), 1954 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Opel Signum (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. (83 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1954 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 189 kg more than 1999 Opel Signum.
Because 1954 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1999 Opel Signum (270 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1954 Mercedes-Benz S. (157 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1999 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1954 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1954 Mercedes-Benz S | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Signum |
| Year Released | 1954 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2193 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.8 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.6:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1570 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2830 mm | 2580 mm |
