1978 Opel Senator vs. 2005 Saturn Relay
To start off, 2005 Saturn Relay 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Saturn Relay is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Saturn Relay (200 HP) has 20 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (180 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Saturn Relay should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Saturn Relay weights approximately 451 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, 2005 Saturn Relay, 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 Saturn Relay (298 Nm) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm). This means 2005 Saturn Relay will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Opel Senator | 2005 Saturn Relay | |
Make | Opel | Saturn |
Model | Senator | Relay |
Year Released | 1978 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2969 cc | 3490 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 180 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 248 Nm | 298 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 94 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.8:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1946 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1840 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 3080 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 95 L |