1978 Opel Senator vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 32 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP) has 425 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (180 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1335 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.
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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,000 Nm) has 752 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Senator | SL |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2010 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 605 HP |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 1000 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95.1 mm | 82.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 80 L |
