2004 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2004 Audi A3 is newer by 26 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, 2004 Audi A3 (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A3 weights approximately 85 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, 2004 Audi A3, 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, 2004 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A3 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A3 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1894 cc | 1977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 236 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1420 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |
