2003 Opel Signum vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (175 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (161 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 380 kg more than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2003 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 2003 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Signum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Opel Signum | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Signum | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2958 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 175 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
