1978 Opel Senator vs. 2001 Opel Signum
To start off, 2001 Opel Signum is newer by 23 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 3,173 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (180 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Opel Signum weights approximately 115 kg more than 1978 Opel Senator. 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, 2001 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, 2001 Opel Signum (300 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2001 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2001 Opel Signum has manual transmission. 2001 Opel Signum will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Opel Senator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2001 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Senator | Signum |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 3173 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 52 L |
