2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 24 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 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 608 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona. 1982 Opel Ascona has automatic transmission and 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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:
| 2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 75 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 183 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1558 kg | 950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2580 mm |
