1972 Opel Ascona vs. 1997 Proton 400
To start off, 1997 Proton 400 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Proton 400 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Proton 400 (74 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1972 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Proton 400 should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Proton 400 weights approximately 60 kg more than 1972 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Opel Ascona 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 1972 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Proton 400, 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Proton 400 (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Proton 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Opel Ascona | 1997 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Opel | Proton |
| Model | Ascona | 400 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2510 mm |
