1978 Opel Senator vs. 2009 Suzuki XL7
To start off, 2009 Suzuki XL7 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 3,564 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Suzuki XL7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Suzuki XL7 (252 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (170 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Suzuki XL7 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 45 kg more than 2009 Suzuki XL7.
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 Suzuki XL7, 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 Suzuki XL7 (330 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Suzuki XL7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2009 Suzuki XL7 | |
| Make | Opel | Suzuki |
| Model | Senator | XL7 |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 3564 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 170 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 6.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 5020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.3 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
