1978 Opel Senator vs. 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 27 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 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 148 kg more than 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier.
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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier (177 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2005 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Opel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Senator | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1977 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 177 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1335 kg | 1187 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 56 L |
