2005 Kia Spectra5 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2005 Kia Spectra5 is newer by 27 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Kia Spectra5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Kia Spectra5 (139 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Kia Spectra5 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 45 kg more than 2005 Kia Spectra5.
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, 2005 Kia Spectra5, 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, 2005 Kia Spectra5 (180 Nm) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm). This means 2005 Kia Spectra5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Kia Spectra5 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Kia | Opel |
| Model | Spectra5 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 139 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1290 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2690 mm |
