1978 Opel Senator vs. 2002 Holden Astra
To start off, 2002 Holden Astra is newer by 24 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 (170 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2002 Holden Astra. (120 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2002 Holden Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 190 kg more than 2002 Holden Astra. 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, 2002 Holden Astra, 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 @ 4200 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Holden Astra. (165 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Holden Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2002 Holden Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Holden |
| Model | Senator | Astra |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2610 mm |
