2007 Alfa Romeo 159 vs. 1974 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,387 cc (5 cylinders), 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (198 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1974 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 should accelerate faster than 1974 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 weights approximately 845 kg more than 1974 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 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 1974 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159, 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, 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 (400 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 310 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Alfa Romeo 159 | 1974 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Alfa Romeo | Opel |
| Model | 159 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2387 cc | 1194 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 400 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.4 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1755 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
