1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,520 cc (8 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (225 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2002 Opel Signum. (100 HP @ 3120 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2002 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 147 kg more than 2002 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 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450. 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 (378 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 148 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Opel Signum. (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Opel Signum. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2002 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 2002 Opel Signum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 | 2002 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 450 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4520 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3120 RPM |
| Torque | 378 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 185 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1742 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1870 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2610 mm |
