2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 4 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 479 more horse power than 2001 Opel Signum. (125 HP @ 3250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 450 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 2005 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm) has 721 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Opel Signum. (280 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Signum |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5980 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 604 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 1001 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.7 L/100km | 6.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
