2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 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 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (138 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 5 kg more than 1978 Opel Senator. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
Model | 156 | Senator |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1774 cc | 1979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 164 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82.7 mm | 69.8 mm |
Top Speed | 208 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2690 mm |