1972 Opel Ascona vs. 2012 Citroen C3
To start off, 2012 Citroen C3 is newer by 40 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 1,360 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Citroen C3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Citroen C3 (87 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1972 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Citroen C3 should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Citroen C3 weights approximately 216 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, 2012 Citroen C3, 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, 2012 Citroen C3 (133 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Opel Ascona | 2012 Citroen C3 | |
| Make | Opel | Citroen |
| Model | Ascona | C3 |
| Year Released | 1972 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1360 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1126 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 3870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2470 mm |
