2005 Lotus Exige vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2005 Lotus Exige is newer by 23 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 2,998 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Lotus Exige is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Lotus Exige (396 HP @ 7750 RPM) has 321 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Lotus Exige should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Opel Ascona weights approximately 140 kg more than 2005 Lotus Exige.
Because 2005 Lotus Exige 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 2005 Lotus Exige. 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, 2005 Lotus Exige (400 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2005 Lotus Exige will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona. 1982 Opel Ascona has automatic transmission and 2005 Lotus Exige has manual transmission. 2005 Lotus Exige will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1982 Opel Ascona will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Lotus Exige | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Lotus | Opel |
| Model | Exige | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2998 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 396 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7750 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 850 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4270 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1160 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2580 mm |
