1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Signum weights approximately 35 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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 (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2745 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 209 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 | 1560 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2740 mm |
