1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 1998 Opel Signum is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (185 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1998 Opel Signum. (99 HP @ 3120 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Signum weights approximately 87 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (238 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Signum. (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1998 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 1909 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3120 RPM |
| Torque | 238 Nm | 185 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 78 L | 60 L |
