1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 2006 Opel Signum
To start off, 2006 Opel Signum is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 200 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Opel Signum (301 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 2006 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Signum |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 60 L |
