1979 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2008 Opel Signum
To start off, 2008 Opel Signum is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S (158 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2008 Opel Signum. (149 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2008 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Opel Signum weights approximately 3 kg more than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Because 1979 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Opel Signum (315 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S. (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Mercedes-Benz S | 2008 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Signum |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 223 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |
