1980 Opel Ascona vs. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic is newer by 33 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (134 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1980 Opel Ascona. (57 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Sonic weights approximately 252 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic, 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, 2013 Chevrolet Sonic (169 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Ascona. (110 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Sonic will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Opel Ascona | 2013 Chevrolet Sonic | |
| Make | Opel | Chevrolet |
| Model | Ascona | Sonic |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 57 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1010 kg | 1262 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4039 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1735 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1517 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2525 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 46 L |
