1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 7,291 cc (12 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 311 more horse power than 2003 Opel Signum. (207 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 437 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 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (766 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 466 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Signum. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Opel Signum | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | SL | Signum |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 7291 cc | 3173 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 518 HP | 207 HP |
Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 766 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 91.5 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 92.4 mm | 88 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2050 kg | 1613 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 | 70 L | 60 L |