2004 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 1978 Opel Senator (177 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 155 kg more than 1978 Opel Senator.
Because 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 Mercedes-Benz C 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, 1978 Opel Senator (248 Nm) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. (240 Nm). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1978 Opel Senator has manual transmission. 1978 Opel Senator will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Senator |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2597 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68.2 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 70 L |
