1980 Opel Ascona vs. 2010 Kia Optima
To start off, 2010 Kia Optima is newer by 30 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Kia Optima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Kia Optima (175 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1980 Opel Ascona. (57 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Kia Optima should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Kia Optima weights approximately 422 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, 2010 Kia Optima, 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, 2010 Kia Optima (229 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Ascona. (110 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2010 Kia Optima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Opel Ascona | 2010 Kia Optima | |
| Make | Opel | Kia |
| Model | Ascona | Optima |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 229 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1432 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4801 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1806 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1481 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
