2002 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 21 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 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (164 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 396 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, 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 (206 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 91 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
