1998 BMW Z3 vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1998 BMW Z3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,793 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW Z3 (191 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW Z3 weights approximately 428 kg more than 1982 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW Z3 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 1998 BMW Z3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1982 Opel Ascona, 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, 1998 BMW Z3 (280 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona. 1982 Opel Ascona has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW Z3 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW Z3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Opel Ascona will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW Z3 | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | Z3 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2793 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1032 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2580 mm |
