1997 Alfa Romeo Spider vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider is newer by 16 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (144 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider weights approximately 300 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, 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider (169 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Alfa Romeo Spider | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | Spider | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1747 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
