1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 vs. 2002 Opel Signum
To start off, 2002 Opel Signum is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 would be higher. At 2,523 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Signum (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2002 Opel Signum.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Opel Signum (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250. (195 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 250 | 2002 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 250 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2523 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72.5 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1380 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5360 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
