2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is newer by 5 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 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 158 more horse power than 2003 Opel Signum. (144 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 124 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Opel Signum. (240 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Opel Signum.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | CLS | Signum |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4965 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1810 kg | 1686 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.3 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 58 L |
