1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo vs. 1978 Opel Senator

To start off, 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo is newer by 20 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 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo (187 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (180 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo should accelerate faster 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, 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo, 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 (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo. (223 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo has manual transmission. 1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo 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:

1998 Alfa Romeo Dardo 1978 Opel Senator
Make Alfa Romeo Opel
Model Dardo Senator
Year Released 1998 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2492 cc 2969 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 187 HP 180 HP
Engine RPM 6200 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 223 Nm 248 Nm
Torque RPM 5000 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 88 mm 95.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 68.3 mm 69.8 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Length 4390 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1260 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2690 mm