1978 Opel Senator vs. 2005 Opel Signum
To start off, 2005 Opel Signum 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 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Senator (170 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2005 Opel Signum. (124 HP @ 3250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Signum. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Signum weights approximately 270 kg more than 1978 Opel Senator.
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 Opel Signum, 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 Opel Signum (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2005 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2005 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Senator | Signum |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 124 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.3 L/100km | 6.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 60 L |
