1968 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (150 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 310 kg more than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Signum (371 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL. (216 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
1968 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Opel Signum | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Signum |
Year Released | 1968 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 2958 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 150 HP | 175 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 216 Nm | 371 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 82 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1670 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2700 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |