2012 Audi A3 vs. 1978 Opel Senator
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 34 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 1978 Opel Senator. (115 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1978 Opel Senator. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 125 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, 2012 Audi A3, 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Opel Senator. (160 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Opel Senator.
Compare all specifications:
2012 Audi A3 | 1978 Opel Senator | |
Make | Audi | Opel |
Model | A3 | Senator |
Year Released | 2012 | 1978 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1977 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 115 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 280 Nm | 160 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | 6-speed automated manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1335 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1763 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1422 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2578 mm | 2690 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 43 L |