2005 Opel Astra vs. 1979 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2005 Opel Astra is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,408 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Opel Ascona is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Opel Ascona (142 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Opel Astra. (123 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Opel Ascona should accelerate faster than 2005 Opel Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Opel Astra weights approximately 101 kg more than 1979 Opel Ascona.
Because 1979 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 1979 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Opel Astra, 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, 1979 Opel Ascona (210 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Opel Astra. (180 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1979 Opel Ascona will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Opel Astra.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Opel Astra | 1979 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Opel | Opel |
| Model | Astra | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 2408 cc |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Top Speed | 201 km/hour | 197 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.6 seconds | 7.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1183 kg | 1082 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2520 mm |
