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 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Opel Senator (180 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2003 Opel Vectra. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2003 Opel Vectra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Vectra weights approximately 269 kg more than 1978 Opel Senator.
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 122 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
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 | 2958 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 180 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 370 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.1 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1764 kg | 1495 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 44 L |
