1978 Opel Senator vs. 2003 Saab 05-Sep
To start off, 2003 Saab 05-Sep is newer by 25 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 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Saab 05-Sep is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Saab 05-Sep (148 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Saab 05-Sep should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Saab 05-Sep weights approximately 153 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, 2003 Saab 05-Sep, 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, 2003 Saab 05-Sep (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Saab 05-Sep will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2003 Saab 05-Sep has manual transmission. 2003 Saab 05-Sep 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 | 2003 Saab 05-Sep | |
| Make | Opel | Saab |
| Model | Senator | 05-Sep |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1977 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 75 L |
