1981 Opel Ascona vs. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,786 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 171 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Opel Ascona | 2001 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ascona | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1786 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1014 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 3010 mm |
