1998 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 1983 Opel Ascona
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 3,197 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (224 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1983 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1983 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 910 kg more than 1983 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 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 214 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | 1983 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | SL | Ascona |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1983 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3197 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 224 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 70 L |
