2008 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C (269 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (136 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 325 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.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mercedes-Benz C (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (186 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mercedes-Benz C | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | C | Senator |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3498 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 269 HP | 136 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 186 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 250 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 790 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4850 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2690 mm |
