2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 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, 1978 Opel Senator (170 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (118 HP @ 5660 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Citroen C3 weights approximately 25 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, 2009 Citroen C3, 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 (248 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (160 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Citroen | Opel |
| Model | C3 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5660 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 6.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1340 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4080 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1640 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.9 L/100km | 5.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
