2006 Mercedes-Benz B vs. 1973 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 33 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 1,699 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1973 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1973 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 400 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz B, 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 Mercedes-Benz B (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mercedes-Benz B | 1973 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Opel |
| Model | B | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1699 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78.5 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 | 1310 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2440 mm |
