1987 Opel Senator vs. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Opel Senator would be higher. At 3,189 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (239 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1987 Opel Senator. (178 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1987 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton weights approximately 459 kg more than 1987 Opel Senator. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1987 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 1987 Opel Senator. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton (315 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Opel Senator. (240 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Opel Senator. 1987 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton has manual transmission. 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Opel Senator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Opel Senator | 2004 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Senator | Phaeton |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 3189 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 239 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 5060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2890 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
