1982 Opel Ascona vs. 2012 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 30 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 473 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.
Because 1982 Opel Ascona is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1982 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen GTI, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 Volkswagen GTI (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (102 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Opel Ascona | 2012 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ascona | GTI |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 240 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 920 kg | 1393 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4213 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1501 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
