1948 Fiat 500 vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1982 Opel Ascona is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1948 Fiat 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1948 Fiat 500 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1982 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Opel Ascona (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1948 Fiat 500. (16 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 1948 Fiat 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Opel Ascona weights approximately 242 kg more than 1948 Fiat 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1948 Fiat 500 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 1948 Fiat 500. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Opel Ascona, 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. 1982 Opel Ascona has automatic transmission and 1948 Fiat 500 has manual transmission. 1948 Fiat 500 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Opel Ascona will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1948 Fiat 500 | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Fiat | Opel |
| Model | 500 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1948 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 569 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 16 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 52 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 67 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 1032 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3220 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1280 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2010 mm | 2580 mm |
