1975 Opel Ascona vs. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 37 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 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1975 Opel Ascona. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 1975 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 486 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, 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 233 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Opel Ascona. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Opel Ascona | 2012 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Opel | Mazda |
| Model | Ascona | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 1975 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1002 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4130 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
