1971 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1981 Opel Ascona is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 115 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (53 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 340 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (98 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2778 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2580 mm |
