2002 Opel Astra vs. 1980 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2002 Opel Astra is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Ascona would be higher. Both 2002 Opel Astra and 1980 Opel Ascona are equipped with a 1,998 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Opel Astra (187 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1980 Opel Ascona. (57 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Opel Astra weights approximately 405 kg more than 1980 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 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 1980 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Opel Astra, 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, 2002 Opel Astra (256 Nm @ 1950 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Ascona. (110 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Opel Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Opel Astra | 1980 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 187 HP | 57 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 256 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1950 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 86.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1415 kg | 1010 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4330 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2610 mm |
