1989 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (164 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 90 kg more than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1989 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 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S. (228 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Mercedes-Benz S.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Mercedes-Benz S | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Signum |
| Year Released | 1989 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2599 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 228 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2740 mm |
