2008 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2008 Audi A4 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 1,979 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A4 (161 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A4 weights approximately 205 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 Audi A4, 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 Audi A4 (225 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A4 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A4 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 225 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2690 mm |
