1978 Opel Senator vs. 2008 Opel Insignia
To start off, 2008 Opel Insignia is newer by 30 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 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Opel Insignia (177 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Opel Insignia should accelerate faster 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, 2008 Opel Insignia, 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, 2008 Opel Insignia (230 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Opel Insignia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2008 Opel Insignia | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Senator | Insignia |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1979 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1856 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1498 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2737 mm |
