1981 Opel Ascona vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 22 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Opel Ascona (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 242 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Let's talk about torque, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ascona | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
