1998 Audi A3 vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1998 Audi A3 is newer by 17 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Audi A3 (100 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Audi A3 weights approximately 126 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, 1998 Audi A3 (144 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Audi A3 | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Audi | Opel |
| Model | A3 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
