2007 Chevrolet HHR vs. 1978 Opel Senator

To start off, 2007 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 29 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 2,189 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chevrolet HHR (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 262 kg more than 2007 Chevrolet HHR.

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, 2007 Chevrolet HHR, 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, 2007 Chevrolet HHR (206 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2007 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2007 Chevrolet HHR has manual transmission. 2007 Chevrolet HHR will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Opel Senator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2007 Chevrolet HHR 1978 Opel Senator
Make Chevrolet Opel
Model HHR Senator
Year Released 2007 1978
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2189 cc 1977 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 150 HP 115 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 206 Nm 160 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 86.1 mm 95 mm
Engine Stroke Size 94.5 mm 69.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.4:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1073 kg 1335 kg
Vehicle Length 4480 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1610 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2690 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 61 L 43 L