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 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 345 kg more than 1978 Opel Senator.
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 (250 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 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 | 2657 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 170 HP |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1685 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.8 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
