1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2005 Opel Signum
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,174 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 20 kg more than 2005 Opel Signum.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 300. 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, 2005 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2005 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 3174 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 87 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3430 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 60 L |
