1958 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1985 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1985 Opel Ascona is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,296 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Opel Ascona (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (44 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Opel Ascona weights approximately 256 kg more than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1985 Opel Ascona (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite. (71 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1985 Opel Ascona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1958 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1985 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Opel |
| Model | Sprite | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1958 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 948 cc | 1296 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 44 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 664 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3500 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 70 L |
