1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 30 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 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (173 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 200 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 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 (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 58 L |
