2003 Vauxhall Signum vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Vauxhall Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Vauxhall Signum would be higher. At 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 501 more horse power than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. (120 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 901 kg more than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2011 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Vauxhall 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz S (999 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 832 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Vauxhall Signum. (167 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Vauxhall Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Vauxhall Signum | 2011 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Signum | S |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 6000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 621 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 999 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 2296 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 5245 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1473 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3165 mm |
