1997 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Opel Signum is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 216 more horse power than 2004 Opel Signum. (99 HP @ 3120 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 174 kg more than 2004 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Opel Signum. (230 Nm @ 1500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Signum |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4971 cc | 1910 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3120 RPM |
| Torque | 468 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 96.5 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1769 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
