1980 Opel Ascona vs. 2003 Opel Signum
To start off, 2003 Opel Signum is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,958 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Opel Signum is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Opel Signum (174 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1980 Opel Ascona. (57 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Opel Signum should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Opel Signum weights approximately 685 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, 2003 Opel Signum, 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, 2003 Opel Signum (370 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 260 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Ascona. (110 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Opel Signum will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Ascona. 2003 Opel Signum has automatic transmission and 1980 Opel Ascona has manual transmission. 1980 Opel Ascona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Opel Signum will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Opel Ascona | 2003 Opel Signum | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Ascona | Signum |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2958 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 370 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.6 mm | 87.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 22.0:1 | 18.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.5 L/100km | 7.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 60 L |
