2006 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1982 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 1,308 cc, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (108 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 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 2006 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (94 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1982 Opel Ascona has manual transmission. 1982 Opel Ascona will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda RX-8 | 1982 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | RX-8 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
