2006 Opel Signum vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2006 Opel Signum is newer by 28 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 3,175 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Opel Signum (208 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Opel Signum weights approximately 275 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, 2006 Opel Signum, 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, 2006 Opel Signum (301 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2006 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Opel Signum | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Signum | Senator |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3175 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 208 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Top Speed | 237 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2690 mm |
