2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1987 Opel Senator

To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Opel Senator. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Opel Senator would be higher. At 2,969 cc (6 cylinders), 1987 Opel Senator is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1987 Opel Senator (178 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1987 Opel Senator should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Opel Senator weights approximately 276 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 1987 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 1987 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, 1987 Opel Senator (240 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1987 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 1987 Opel Senator
Make Mazda Opel
Model 3 Senator
Year Released 2009 1987
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1598 cc 2969 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 104 HP 178 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 146 Nm 240 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 78 mm 95 mm
Engine Stroke Size 83.6 mm 69.8 mm
Top Speed 182 km/hour 212 km/hour
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1260 kg 1536 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 4850 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1450 mm
Wheelbase Size 2650 mm 2690 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 70 L