1978 Opel Senator vs. 2008 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2008 Smart Roadster 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 1,977 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1978 Opel Senator (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2008 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Opel | Smart |
| Model | Senator | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1977 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 175 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 35 L |
