1978 Opel Senator vs. 1996 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1996 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Senator would be higher. At 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Senator (177 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Golf, 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 (248 Nm) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Golf. (165 Nm). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 1996 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Senator | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 92.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2480 mm |
