1981 Opel Ascona vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 27 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (149 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 300 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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ascona | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1050 kg | 1350 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
