2005 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 166 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1190 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (186 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz S | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Senator |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 460 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1980 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2690 mm |
