2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 624 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1978 Opel Senator has manual transmission. 1978 Opel Senator will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Senator |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1979 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1959 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2690 mm |
