1979 Opel Ascona vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,408 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1979 Opel Ascona. (142 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 188 kg more than 1979 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 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 1979 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle (225 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Ascona. (210 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
1979 Opel Ascona | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
Model | Ascona | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1979 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2408 cc | 2324 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 225 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 81 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 90.2 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1082 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2520 mm |