1973 Citroen DS vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 1978 Opel Senator is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen DS would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Senator (115 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 125 kg more than 1973 Citroen DS. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Opel Senator 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 1978 Opel Senator. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1973 Citroen DS, 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, 1978 Opel Senator (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
1973 Citroen DS | 1978 Opel Senator | |
Make | Citroen | Opel |
Model | DS | Senator |
Year Released | 1973 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1977 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 103 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 152 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 69.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2690 mm |