1985 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2005 Opel Signum
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Signum weights approximately 110 kg more than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S. (224 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Mercedes-Benz S | 2005 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Signum |
| Year Released | 1985 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2746 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1560 kg | 1670 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2620 mm |
