2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK vs. 1999 Opel Signum
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Opel Signum. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Opel Signum would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1999 Opel Signum. (153 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1999 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Opel Signum weights approximately 270 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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 SLK (241 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Opel Signum. (221 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | 1999 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SLK | Signum |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 9.8 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 | 1265 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4090 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
