2008 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Impala 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 3,505 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet Impala (211 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 285 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 Chevrolet Impala, 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 Chevrolet Impala (290 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (186 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Impala | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Opel |
| Model | Impala | Senator |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3505 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 211 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 290 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.9 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 6 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1075 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2690 mm |
