1972 Opel Ascona vs. 2004 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen Polo is newer by 32 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 1,421 cc (3 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (74 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1972 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen Polo should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 294 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo, 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, 2004 Volkswagen Polo (335 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2004 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Opel Ascona | 2004 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ascona | Polo |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1421 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1204 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
