1975 Opel Ascona vs. 2009 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen T5 is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,459 cc (5 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (172 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1975 Opel Ascona. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5 should accelerate faster than 1975 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 222 kg more than 1975 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen T5, 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, 2009 Volkswagen T5 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 254 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Opel Ascona. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Opel Ascona | 2009 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ascona | T5 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2459 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 172 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1224 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 80 L |
