2003 Opel Vectra vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2003 Opel Vectra 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 2,957 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Vectra (173 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 815 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 Opel Vectra, 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 Opel Vectra (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (186 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra has manual transmission. 2003 Opel Vectra 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 Opel Vectra | 1978 Opel Senator | |
Make | Opel | Opel |
Model | Vectra | Senator |
Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2957 cc | 2488 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 173 HP | 136 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 370 Nm | 186 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4600 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 87 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 69.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
Top Speed | 226 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1605 kg | 790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2690 mm |