1978 Opel Senator vs. 2003 Volvo V50
To start off, 2003 Volvo V50 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 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo V50 (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo V50 weights approximately 64 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 Volvo V50, 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 Volvo V50 (230 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2003 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Senator | V50 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1977 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1399 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 62 L |
