1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (170 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 40 kg more than 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280.
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. Let's talk about torque, 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Mercedes-Benz 280 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Senator |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.8 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2690 mm |
