2009 Kia Optima vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2009 Kia Optima 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Optima (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Optima weights approximately 184 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 Kia Optima, 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 Kia Optima (250 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Kia Optima | 1978 Opel Senator | |
Make | Kia | Opel |
Model | Optima | Senator |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1977 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 194 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86.7 mm | 95 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 69.8 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.4:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1519 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 43 L |