1994 Mazda MX-3 vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1994 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 13 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 1,845 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Mazda MX-3 (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 149 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, 1994 Mazda MX-3 (157 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1994 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Mazda MX-3 | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-3 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1845 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 157 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 69.6 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1163 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2580 mm |
