1973 Opel Ascona vs. 1997 Opel Astra
To start off, 1997 Opel Astra is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,389 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Opel Astra (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1973 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Opel Astra weights approximately 240 kg more than 1973 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Opel Astra, 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 Opel Astra (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Opel Ascona | 1997 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Ascona | Astra |
| Year Released | 1973 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 77.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
