2003 Nissan Maxima vs. 1987 Opel Senator

To start off, 2003 Nissan Maxima 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, 1987 Opel Senator (178 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (138 HP @ 6400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2003 Nissan Maxima. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Opel Senator weights approximately 121 kg more than 2003 Nissan Maxima. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

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 Nissan Maxima, 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 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Nissan Maxima. (181 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Nissan Maxima. 1987 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2003 Nissan Maxima has manual transmission. 2003 Nissan Maxima will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Opel Senator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Nissan Maxima 1987 Opel Senator
Make Nissan Opel
Model Maxima Senator
Year Released 2003 1987
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1995 cc 2969 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 138 HP 178 HP
Engine RPM 6400 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 181 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4400 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1415 kg 1536 kg
Vehicle Length 4930 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1790 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1440 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2760 mm 2690 mm


 

More Comparisons

Resources

Replacing Your Front Disc Brakes Made Simple: The Definitive DIY Guide
Replace the front disc brakes of your vehicle and save money on labour cost. Read this guide to learn how. [read more]
What to look for when buying a used/second hand car.
Diligence through every step of the buying process will help you find a reliable used car and avoid any unpleasant surprises. [read more]
Step-by-Step Guide on How to Perform an Oil Change on Your Car
One of the most effective ways of saving money on car maintenance is to change the oil yourself. [read more]