2004 Audi A8 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2004 Audi A8 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 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Audi A8 (230 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (170 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Audi A8 weights approximately 490 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 2004 Audi A8 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 Opel Senator. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Audi A8 will offer significantly more control. 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 A8 (450 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2004 Audi A8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Audi A8 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A8 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2966 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 450 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 95.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91.4 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5060 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1900 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.4 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 90 L | 70 L |
