1997 Chevrolet Cavalier vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Opel Senator would be higher. At 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Senator (136 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 404 kg more than 1978 Opel Senator.
Because 1978 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 1978 Opel Senator. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier, 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, 1978 Opel Senator (186 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier has manual transmission. 1997 Chevrolet Cavalier will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Opel Senator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Chevrolet Cavalier | 1978 Opel Senator | |
Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
Model | Cavalier | Senator |
Year Released | 1997 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2190 cc | 2488 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 120 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 186 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 69.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2690 mm |