2001 BMW 520 vs. 1982 Opel Ascona

To start off, 2001 BMW 520 is newer by 19 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW 520 (167 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (90 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW 520 weights approximately 678 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 2001 BMW 520 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 2001 BMW 520. 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, 2001 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2001 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona. 1982 Opel Ascona has automatic transmission and 2001 BMW 520 has manual transmission. 2001 BMW 520 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:

2001 BMW 520 1982 Opel Ascona
Make BMW Opel
Model 520 Ascona
Year Released 2001 1982
Body Type Station Wagon Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2171 cc 1598 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 167 HP 90 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 210 Nm 126 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 80 mm
Engine Stroke Size 72 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 9.2:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1670 kg 992 kg
Vehicle Length 4810 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1670 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2580 mm