2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Opel Signum would be higher. At 5,513 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 285 more horse power than 2001 Opel Signum. (208 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 349 kg more than 2001 Opel Signum. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Signum. (300 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Signum |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1959 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 91 L | 52 L |
