1979 Opel Ascona vs. 2005 Volvo V50
To start off, 2005 Volvo V50 is newer by 26 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 2,442 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Volvo V50 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volvo V50 (218 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 1979 Opel Ascona. (142 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volvo V50 should accelerate faster than 1979 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volvo V50 weights approximately 369 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, 2005 Volvo V50, 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, 2005 Volvo V50 (320 Nm) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Opel Ascona. (210 Nm). This means 2005 Volvo V50 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Opel Ascona | 2005 Volvo V50 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Ascona | V50 |
| Year Released | 1979 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2408 cc | 2442 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 142 HP | 218 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 95 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1082 kg | 1451 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2650 mm |
