1981 Opel Ascona vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 30 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 340 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 735 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Opel Ascona | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Ascona | M3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1295 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 101 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.4 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1655 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1424 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 63 L |
