2006 Alfa Romeo 156 vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,970 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (149 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (114 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 weights approximately 565 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 (181 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (154 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Alfa Romeo 156 | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 156 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1970 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1615 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2600 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
