2009 BMW M3 vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2009 BMW M3 is newer by 28 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 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 340 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW M3 weights approximately 465 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, 2009 BMW M3 (401 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 300 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (101 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2009 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW M3 | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | BMW | Opel |
| Model | M3 | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3999 cc | 1295 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 414 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.2 mm | 73.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 920 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 70 L |
