1978 Opel Senator vs. 2003 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Golf 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (238 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (180 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 53 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 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, 2003 Volkswagen Golf (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2003 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Senator | Golf |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 62 L |
