1981 Opel Ascona vs. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 23 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (113 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (53 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 211 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, 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle (165 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (98 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ascona | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 113 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2590 mm |
