2006 MG ZT vs. 1980 Opel Ascona

To start off, 2006 MG ZT is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 MG ZT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 MG ZT (187 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 1980 Opel Ascona. (57 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 MG ZT should accelerate faster than 1980 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 MG ZT weights approximately 550 kg more than 1980 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1980 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 1980 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 MG ZT, 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 MG ZT (245 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Opel Ascona. (110 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2006 MG ZT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Opel Ascona.

Compare all specifications:

2006 MG ZT 1980 Opel Ascona
Make MG Opel
Model ZT Ascona
Year Released 2006 1980
Body Type Sedan Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1998 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 187 HP 57 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 4200 RPM
Torque 245 Nm 110 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 2400 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 86.6 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.8 mm 85 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 22.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Diesel
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1560 kg 1010 kg
Vehicle Length 4750 mm 4330 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1680 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2610 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.9 L/100km 7.5 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 65 L 50 L