1997 Opel Vectra vs. 1986 Opel Senator
To start off, 1997 Opel Vectra is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Opel Senator would be higher. At 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Opel Senator (114 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Opel Vectra. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 1997 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Opel Senator weights approximately 135 kg more than 1997 Opel Vectra. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 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 1986 Opel Senator. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Opel Vectra, 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, 1986 Opel Senator (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Opel Vectra. (129 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 1986 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Opel Vectra.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Opel Vectra | 1986 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Vectra | Senator |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 129 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.8 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
