1998 Buick Signia vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Buick Signia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Buick Signia would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 380 more horse power than 1998 Buick Signia. (238 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1998 Buick Signia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 28 kg more than 1998 Buick Signia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Buick Signia, 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 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (781 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 394 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Buick Signia. (387 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Buick Signia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Buick Signia | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Buick | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Signia | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3800 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 238 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 781 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1768 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2720 mm |
