1982 Opel Ascona vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (158 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 510 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, 2012 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona. 1982 Opel Ascona has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Passat has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Passat will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Opel Ascona will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Opel Ascona | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Opel | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ascona | Passat |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 126 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Top Speed | 165 km/hour | 220 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 992 kg | 1502 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2712 mm |
