1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2003 Opel Signum. (115 HP @ 3000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 95 kg more than 2003 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Signum. (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 450 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4519 cc | 2172 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 217 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Torque | 359 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 98 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2820 mm | 2840 mm |
