1974 Opel Ascona vs. 1998 Opel Astra
To start off, 1998 Opel Astra is newer by 24 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 1,698 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Astra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Astra (74 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1974 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Opel Astra weights approximately 290 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, 1998 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, 1998 Opel Astra (165 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1974 Opel Ascona | 1998 Opel Astra | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Ascona | Astra |
| Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1194 cc | 1698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 90 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 910 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2620 mm |
