1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 vs. 2005 Opel Signum

To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 32 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 126 more horse power than 2005 Opel Signum. (99 HP @ 3120 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 147 kg more than 2005 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, 2005 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 2005 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 2005 Opel Signum. 1973 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2005 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 2005 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 2005 Opel Signum
Make Mercedes-Benz Opel
Model 450 Signum
Year Released 1973 2005
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4520 cc 1993 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 225 HP 99 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 1800 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2870 mm 2740 mm