1986 Opel Senator vs. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Senator would be higher. At 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1986 Opel Senator. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 170 kg more than 1986 Opel Senator. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Opel Senator. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta, 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, 2011 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Senator. (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Opel Senator | 2011 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Senator | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1986 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 182 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1320 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
