1996 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1983 Opel Senator
To start off, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 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 2,197 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1983 Opel Senator. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 90 kg more than 1983 Opel Senator. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1983 Opel Senator (186 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 1983 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | 1983 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Senator |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1797 cc | 2197 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.3 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2690 mm |
