1973 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S (182 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Opel Signum. (173 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 50 kg more than 2004 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 S 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 S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2004 Opel Signum (265 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S. (233 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz S | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Signum |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 182 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 233 Nm | 265 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4970 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
