1981 Opel Ascona vs. 2012 BMW X3
To start off, 2012 BMW X3 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW X3 (256 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 175 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW X3 weights approximately 861 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 X3 (560 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 426 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2012 BMW X3 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 X3 | |
| Make | Opel | BMW |
| Model | Ascona | X3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2993 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 256 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 560 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1014 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4648 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1881 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1675 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2810 mm |
