1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 (215 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2001 Opel Signum. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 281 kg more than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Because 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. (275 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300. 2001 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1961 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 275 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 100 L | 52 L |
