2003 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 22 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 2,492 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (189 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (53 HP @ 4600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 390 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, 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 (218 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (98 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2492 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 98 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
