1978 Opel Senator vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 34 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (518 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 338 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (180 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 850 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Opel Senator. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML (699 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 451 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Opel Senator | 2012 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Opel | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Senator | ML |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 518 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 248 Nm | 699 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.9 seconds | 4.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 2345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4803 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1796 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2916 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 44 L | 105 L |
