1987 Opel Senator vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 25 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, 1987 Opel Senator (178 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (140 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1987 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Opel Senator weights approximately 31 kg more than 2012 Audi A3. 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, 2012 Audi A3, 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, 2012 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Opel Senator. (240 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Opel Senator | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Opel | Audi |
| Model | Senator | A3 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2969 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 178 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1536 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2690 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
