1983 Opel Senator vs. 2003 Opel Vectra
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Senator would be higher. At 2,490 cc (6 cylinders), 1983 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Opel Senator (134 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (125 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 186 kg more than 1983 Opel Senator.
Because 1983 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 1983 Opel Senator. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra, 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, 2003 Opel Vectra (280 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Senator. (189 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Opel Senator | 2003 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Senator | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2490 cc | 2169 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 189 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1374 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
