1998 Mazda 323 vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1998 Mazda 323 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 1,840 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda 323 (114 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323 should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mazda 323 weights approximately 200 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 1982 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 1982 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mazda 323, 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 Mazda 323 (162 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (102 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda 323 | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | 323 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1840 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
