2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 21 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. Both 2003 Mazda Roadster and 1982 Opel Ascona are equipped with a 1,598 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Opel Ascona weights approximately 35 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 2003 Mazda Roadster. 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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (131 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | Roadster | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 40 L |
