1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2002 Opel Signum
To start off, 2002 Opel Signum is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Signum weights approximately 135 kg more than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 2002 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2002 Opel Signum | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | 280 | Signum |
Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2746 cc | 3175 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 182 HP | 208 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 240 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1475 kg | 1610 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |