1978 Opel Senator vs. 2004 Opel Zafira
To start off, 2004 Opel Zafira is newer by 26 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, 2004 Opel Zafira (197 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (177 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Opel Zafira should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Opel Zafira weights approximately 55 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, 2004 Opel Zafira, 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, 2004 Opel Zafira (251 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Opel Zafira will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2004 Opel Zafira | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Senator | Zafira |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 177 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1950 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 209 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4700 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1640 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 58 L |
