2009 Ford Explorer vs. 1981 Opel Ascona
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 211 more horse power than 1981 Opel Ascona. (81 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1981 Opel Ascona. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Opel Ascona weights approximately 48 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Let's talk about torque, 2009 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 293 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Opel Ascona. (134 Nm @ 2600 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Opel Ascona.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 1981 Opel Ascona | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Explorer | Ascona |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1014 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2580 mm |
