1974 Opel Ascona vs. 1988 Opel Vectra
To start off, 1988 Opel Vectra is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Opel Vectra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Opel Vectra (81 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1974 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Opel Vectra should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Opel Vectra weights approximately 115 kg more than 1974 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Opel Vectra, 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, 1988 Opel Vectra (125 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 Opel Vectra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Opel Ascona | 1988 Opel Vectra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Ascona | Vectra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1194 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2740 mm |
