1978 Opel Senator A Dimensions, Size & Specs

The curb weight of the Opel Senator A ranges from approximately 1370 kg to 1425 kg (3020 to 3140 lbs), depending on specific configurations and optional equipment. Its maximum gross weight spans from 1900 kg to 1925 kg (4189 to 4243 lbs), which includes passengers and cargo, ensuring adequate capacity for a luxury sedan with a solid build and safety features.

The Opel Senator A offers a generous luggage capacity of 715 liters (about 25.2 cubic feet) with the rear seats in their upright position. Interestingly, folding the rear seats does not increase the luggage capacity beyond 715 liters, which indicates a design where the trunk space is already maximized or not directly connected with the rear seat area.

Yes, the Opel Senator A typically fits within a standard European garage, which generally measures about 2.4 to 3 meters (7.9 to 9.8 feet) in width and at least 5 to 6 meters (16.4 to 19.7 feet) in length. With its length of 4.811 meters (15.8 feet) and width of 1.728 meters (5.7 feet), this sedan comfortably fits and leaves room for maneuvering inside a standard garage.

The Opel Senator A sedan has a ride height or ground clearance of 140 mm (5.5 inches). This clearance is typical for sedans of its class aimed primarily at on-road comfort and performance. While it offers sufficient clearance for regular paved roads and light obstacles, it’s not designed for off-road or rough terrain driving, limiting its versatility in challenging driving environments.

The Opel Senator A came equipped with tire sizes of 195/70 R14, mounted on rims sized 6J x 14. This combination balances a comfortable ride with good road handling characteristics, reflecting the sedan's focus on luxury and stability rather than sporty performance.

Comparing the Opel Senator A to its predecessor, the Opel Diplomat B, reveals some notable differences. The Senator A measures 4811 mm (189.4 inches) in length, which is slightly smaller or in the same range as the larger Diplomat B. The Senator A focused more on modern luxury and streamlined design while maintaining significant interior space. The width and height of the Senator A are more compact than the Diplomat B, enhancing maneuverability while retaining cabin comfort. Overall, the Senator A represented a modernization in Opel's flagship sedan segment with a balanced approach to size and weight.

When compared to contemporaries such as the BMW 5 Series (E12) or Mercedes-Benz W123, the Opel Senator A is slightly larger in length with 4811 mm (189.4 inches). Its width of 1728 mm (68 inches) is comparable to these rivals. In terms of luggage capacity, the Senator's 715 liters (25.2 cubic feet) exceeds typical volumes offered by competitors. These dimensions positioned the Senator A as a competitive option in the executive sedan market segment, providing ample space and comfort for its class.

The Opel Senator A has a maximum roof load capacity of 80 kg (176 lbs). This limit should be observed to ensure vehicle stability and safety while driving. Roof racks or cargo carriers can be used, but it's important not to exceed this weight to avoid issues such as roof damage, compromised handling, or increased wind resistance, which could affect fuel efficiency and driving comfort.

The Opel Senator A is offered exclusively as a sedan, emphasizing executive luxury and passenger comfort. This body style provides a spacious and enclosed passenger compartment, appealing to customers seeking refinement and executive presence. However, the sedan body style limits cargo loading versatility compared to hatchbacks or estates, although the large boot volume of 715 liters compensates somewhat for this.