1987 Opel Senator vs. 2005 Volvo S40
To start off, 2005 Volvo S40 is newer by 18 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 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo S40 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1987 Opel Senator. (178 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1987 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Opel Senator weights approximately 111 kg more than 2005 Volvo S40.
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, 2005 Volvo S40, 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, 2005 Volvo S40 (340 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Opel Senator. (240 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2005 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Opel Senator | 2005 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Senator | S40 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 2401 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 212 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 62 L |
