1999 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 150 kg more than 2001 Opel Signum.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. (271 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL. 2001 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Signum |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 271 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 52 L |
