1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 1978 Opel Senator is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 would be higher. At 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 (276 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (170 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 620 kg more than 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1956 Mercedes-Benz W 196 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | W 196 | Senator |
| Year Released | 1956 | 1978 |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 720 kg | 1340 kg |
