1980 Opel Ascona vs. 1971 Saab 99
To start off, 1980 Opel Ascona is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Saab 99. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Saab 99 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Saab 99 (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1980 Opel Ascona. (57 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Saab 99 should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Saab 99 weights approximately 110 kg more than 1980 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1971 Saab 99, 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, 1971 Saab 99 (147 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Ascona. (110 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1971 Saab 99 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Opel Ascona | 1971 Saab 99 | |
| Make | Opel | Saab |
| Model | Ascona | 99 |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1853 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 147 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.6 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
