2008 Citroen Xsara vs. 1987 Opel Senator

To start off, 2008 Citroen Xsara is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Opel Senator would be higher. At 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Opel Senator (178 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2008 Citroen Xsara. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen Xsara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Opel Senator weights approximately 196 kg more than 2008 Citroen Xsara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1987 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 1987 Opel Senator. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Citroen Xsara, 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 Citroen Xsara (250 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Opel Senator. (240 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen Xsara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Opel Senator. 1987 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2008 Citroen Xsara has manual transmission. 2008 Citroen Xsara will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1987 Opel Senator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Citroen Xsara 1987 Opel Senator
Make Citroen Opel
Model Xsara Senator
Year Released 2008 1987
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 2969 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 108 HP 178 HP
Engine RPM 4000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 1750 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 85 mm 95 mm
Engine Stroke Size 88 mm 69.8 mm
Top Speed 194 km/hour 212 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1340 kg 1536 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2550 mm 2690 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 54 L 70 L