2003 Alfa Romeo 166 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 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 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 (185 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (177 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 50 kg more than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166.
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 166, 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 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166. (221 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Alfa Romeo 166.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 166 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 166 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 221 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 220 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 69 L | 70 L |
