2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1987 Opel Senator
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Opel Senator would be higher. At 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1987 Opel Senator. (178 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1987 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Opel Senator weights approximately 102 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Because 1987 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 1987 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, 1987 Opel Senator (240 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156. (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1987 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 156.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1987 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 178 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.3 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 230 km/hour | 212 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1434 kg | 1536 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
