2008 BMW 523 vs. 1982 Opel Ascona

To start off, 2008 BMW 523 is newer by 26 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1982 Opel Ascona. (75 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1982 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 523 weights approximately 540 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.

Because 2008 BMW 523 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 2008 BMW 523. 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, 2008 BMW 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Opel Ascona. 1982 Opel Ascona has automatic transmission and 2008 BMW 523 has manual transmission. 2008 BMW 523 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:

2008 BMW 523 1982 Opel Ascona
Make BMW Opel
Model 523 Ascona
Year Released 2008 1982
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2497 cc 1295 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 175 HP 75 HP
Engine RPM 5800 RPM 5800 RPM
Torque 230 Nm 101 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 3800 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82 mm 75 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78.8 mm 73.4 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 9.2:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1490 kg 950 kg
Vehicle Length 4870 mm 4370 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2890 mm 2580 mm