2004 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Opel Signum would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 286 more horse power than 2003 Opel Signum. (207 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 367 kg more than 2003 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, 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Signum. (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Signum |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5439 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 700 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 4.7 seconds | 8.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 1613 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.5 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
