1981 Opel Ascona vs. 2012 BMW 320
To start off, 2012 BMW 320 is newer by 31 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 320 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 320 (182 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (53 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 320 weights approximately 470 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, 2012 BMW 320 (270 Nm @ 1250 RPM) has 172 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (98 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Opel Ascona | 2012 BMW 320 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Ascona | 320 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 1250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1490 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1429 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
