2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo 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 1,977 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo weights approximately 40 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 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo, 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 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo has manual transmission. 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo 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:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz Vaneo | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | Vaneo | Senator |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1898 cc | 1977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.6 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1375 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2970 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 43 L |
