2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Opel Ascona. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Opel Ascona would be higher. At 1,798 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (124 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata weights approximately 272 kg more than 1981 Opel Ascona. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (167 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 66 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Mazda | Opel |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 124 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1260 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
