2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1986 Opel Senator
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1986 Opel Senator. (114 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1986 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1986 Opel Senator. 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156, 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Opel Senator. (182 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1986 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 77.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1405 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
