1952 Ferrari 342 America vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1982 Opel Ascona is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1952 Ferrari 342 America. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1952 Ferrari 342 America would be higher. At 4,101 cc (12 cylinders), 1952 Ferrari 342 America is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1952 Ferrari 342 America (197 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1952 Ferrari 342 America should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1952 Ferrari 342 America weights approximately 100 kg more than 1982 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1952 Ferrari 342 America 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 1952 Ferrari 342 America. 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 1952 Ferrari 342 America has manual transmission. 1952 Ferrari 342 America 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:
| 1952 Ferrari 342 America | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Ferrari | Opel |
| Model | 342 America | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1952 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4101 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 68 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2580 mm |
