2008 Kia Spectra vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2008 Kia Spectra 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 2,488 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Kia Spectra (138 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Kia Spectra should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Kia Spectra weights approximately 721 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 Kia Spectra, 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, 1978 Opel Senator (186 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Kia Spectra. (184 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Kia Spectra. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2008 Kia Spectra has manual transmission. 2008 Kia Spectra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Opel Senator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Kia Spectra | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Kia | Opel |
| Model | Spectra | Senator |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1973 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1511 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2690 mm |
