1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2000 Opel Signum
To start off, 2000 Opel Signum is newer by 27 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 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (156 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2000 Opel Signum. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2000 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 80 kg more than 2000 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2000 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 (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Opel Signum. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2000 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2000 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 156 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 60 L |
