1981 Opel Ascona vs. 2006 BMW Z4
To start off, 2006 BMW Z4 is newer by 25 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW Z4 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW Z4 weights approximately 321 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, 2006 BMW Z4 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2006 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Opel Ascona | 2006 BMW Z4 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Ascona | Z4 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2492 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1014 kg | 1335 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2500 mm |
