2008 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 30 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (180 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 215 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 has manual transmission. 2008 Alfa Romeo 159 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:
2008 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
Model | 159 | Senator |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2387 cc | 2969 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 197 HP | 180 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 400 Nm | 248 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 95.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 69.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.4 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1710 kg | 1495 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 44 L |