2009 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 30 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 Mercedes-Benz A, 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 Mercedes-Benz A (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator. 1978 Opel Senator has automatic transmission and 2009 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Opel Senator will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz A | 1978 Opel Senator | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
Model | A | Senator |
Year Released | 2009 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1977 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 138 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 300 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1365 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3840 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1600 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 43 L |