2005 Nissan Micra vs. 1973 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2005 Nissan Micra is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,386 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Micra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Micra (88 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1973 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Micra should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Micra weights approximately 137 kg more than 1973 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Micra, 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 Nissan Micra (128 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2005 Nissan Micra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Nissan Micra | 1973 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Nissan | Opel |
| Model | Micra | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1386 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 88 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82.8 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1047 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3720 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2440 mm |
