2003 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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. At 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (493 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 412 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 995 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz S 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 Mercedes-Benz S. 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 Mercedes-Benz S (800 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 669 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (131 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 1982 Opel Ascona has manual transmission. 1982 Opel Ascona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | S | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5513 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 12 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 493 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 800 Nm | 131 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2060 kg | 1065 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5170 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3090 mm | 2520 mm |
