1978 Opel Senator vs. 2009 Scion tC
To start off, 2009 Scion tC 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 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Scion tC (161 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Scion tC should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Scion tC weights approximately 539 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 Scion tC, 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 Scion tC (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (186 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2009 Scion tC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2009 Scion tC has manual transmission. 2009 Scion tC will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Opel Senator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1978 Opel Senator | 2009 Scion tC | |
Make | Opel | Scion |
Model | Senator | tC |
Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2488 cc | 2362 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 136 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 186 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1329 kg |