1996 Ford Probe vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1996 Ford Probe is newer by 15 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 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Probe is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Probe (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Probe should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Probe weights approximately 310 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, 1996 Ford Probe (170 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Probe will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Probe | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Probe | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 70 L |
