2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 (177 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Opel Senator weights approximately 175 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. 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 Mazda 3, 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 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1978 Opel Senator will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 3 | Senator |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2969 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 177 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 188 Nm | 248 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 69.8 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 200 km/hour | 209 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
