1996 Opel Astra vs. 1975 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1996 Opel Astra is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1975 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1975 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,897 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Opel Astra (114 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 1975 Opel Ascona. (90 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1975 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Opel Astra weights approximately 148 kg more than 1975 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1975 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 1975 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Opel Astra, 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, 1996 Opel Astra (170 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1975 Opel Ascona. (146 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1996 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1975 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Opel Astra | 1975 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1975 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1897 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4130 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
