1989 Mazda 323 vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1989 Mazda 323 is newer by 7 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Mazda 323 (140 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Mazda 323 weights approximately 96 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, 1989 Mazda 323 (164 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1989 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona. 1982 Opel Ascona has automatic transmission and 1989 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1989 Mazda 323 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:
| 1989 Mazda 323 | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 140 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1046 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2580 mm |
