1982 Opel Ascona vs. 2003 Volvo S40
To start off, 2003 Volvo S40 is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,435 cc (5 cylinders), 2003 Volvo S40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volvo S40 (138 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (115 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volvo S40 should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volvo S40 weights approximately 360 kg more than 1982 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Volvo S40 (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Volvo S40 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Opel Ascona | 2003 Volvo S40 | |
| Make | Opel | Volvo |
| Model | Ascona | S40 |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 2435 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 115 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 154 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 180 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |
