1978 Opel Senator vs. 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara is newer by 29 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 2,734 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara (181 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 835 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 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Opel Senator. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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, 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara (231 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (186 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2007 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Opel | Suzuki |
| Model | Senator | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2007 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 2734 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 181 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1625 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2810 mm |
