2009 Audi A4 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2009 Audi A4 is newer by 31 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. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi A4 (187 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (177 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi A4 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A4 weights approximately 160 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, 2009 Audi A4, 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, 2009 Audi A4 (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 152 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Audi A4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A4 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A4 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2697 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1645 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 70 L |
