1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 2006 Opel Signum
To start off, 2006 Opel Signum is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 74 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 340 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. 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 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 2006 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Signum |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3175 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 231 km/hour | 237 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1280 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 60 L |
