1998 BMW 318 vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1998 BMW 318 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 1,895 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (116 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 381 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 BMW 318 (180 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | 318 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 116 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |
