1978 Opel Senator vs. 2009 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2009 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 31 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 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 96 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 856 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata, 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, 2009 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (186 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2009 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Opel | Hyundai |
| Model | Senator | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2488 cc | 3342 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 136 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1646 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2740 mm |
