1996 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1998 Opel Signum
To start off, 1998 Opel Signum is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (317 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 218 more horse power than 1998 Opel Signum. (99 HP @ 3120 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 245 kg more than 1998 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (471 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 286 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Opel Signum. (185 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Opel Signum. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 1998 Opel Signum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1998 Opel Signum | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Signum |
Year Released | 1996 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4973 cc | 1909 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 317 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3120 RPM |
Torque | 471 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 1595 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2840 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |