2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1971 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (148 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 89 more horse power than 1971 Opel Ascona. (59 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1971 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 703 kg more than 1971 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Opel Ascona. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser, 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 Chrysler PT Cruiser (301 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Opel Ascona. (90 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1971 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Chrysler | Opel |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 301 Nm | 90 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 79.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 61 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1613 kg | 910 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
