2008 Hyundai Sonata vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata 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 3,342 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Hyundai Sonata (232 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 311 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 Hyundai Sonata, 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 Hyundai Sonata (304 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Hyundai Sonata | 1978 Opel Senator | |
Make | Hyundai | Opel |
Model | Sonata | Senator |
Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3342 cc | 1979 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 232 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 92.1 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.8 mm | 69.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1646 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2690 mm |