1979 Datsun 280 vs. 1972 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1979 Datsun 280 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,751 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Datsun 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Datsun 280 (140 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1972 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Datsun 280 should accelerate faster than 1972 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Datsun 280 weights approximately 362 kg more than 1972 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1979 Datsun 280 (202 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1979 Datsun 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Datsun 280 | 1972 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Datsun | Opel |
| Model | 280 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2751 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1272 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2440 mm |
