1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2003 Opel Signum. (173 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 25 kg more than 2003 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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 (280 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300. (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 Mercedes-Benz 300 | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 300 | Signum |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2962 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 188 HP | 173 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 211 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2940 mm | 2720 mm |
