The coupe Opel Ascona 1970 - 1975 year modification 1.6 MT (68 hp)

Engine
Engine type	petrol
Engine capacity, cm³	1584
Boost type	No
Maximum power, hp/kW at rpm	68 / 50 at 5000
Maximum torque, N*m at rpm	108 at 3000
Cylinder arrangement	in-line
Number of cylinders	4
Engine power supply system	carburetor
Cylinder diameter and piston stroke, mm	85 × 69.8
General information
Brand country	Germany
Car class	D
Number of doors	4
Performance indicators
Fuel consumption, l city / highway / combined	— / — / 12
Maximum speed, km/h	145
Acceleration to 100 km/h, s	18
Sizes in mm
Length	4178
Width	1635
Height	1384
Wheelbase	2432
Ground clearance	127
Front track width	1327
Rear track width	1327
Suspension and brakes
Type of front suspension	independent, spring
Type of rear suspension	dependent, spring
Front brakes	disc
Rear brakes	drum
Transmission
Transmission	mechanical
Number of gears	4
Drive type	rear

Opel Ascona 1.6 MT (68 hp): A Classic Coupe with Timeless Appeal

The Opel Ascona, a classic German coupe, is a vehicle that embodies the charm and engineering prowess of the 1970s. Produced between 1970 and 1975, this car is a testament to Opel's commitment to quality and performance. With its sleek coupe body type, the Ascona offers a blend of style and practicality, making it a standout in its class. This article delves into the key features, performance, and design of the Opel Ascona 1.6 MT, highlighting its strengths and areas where it may fall short by modern standards.

Performance and Engine Specifications

Under the hood, the Opel Ascona 1.6 MT is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-4 petrol engine, delivering 68 horsepower at 5000 rpm. While this may seem modest by today's standards, it was a respectable figure for its time. The carburetor-based fuel system ensures a straightforward and reliable performance, though it may lack the efficiency of modern fuel injection systems. The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 18 seconds, which is leisurely compared to contemporary vehicles but adequate for its era. With a top speed of 145 km/h, the Ascona is more suited for relaxed cruising than high-speed thrills.

The rear-wheel-drive configuration and 4-speed manual transmission provide a classic driving experience, offering a sense of connection to the road that is often missing in modern cars. The independent front suspension and dependent rear suspension, combined with spring systems, ensure a comfortable ride, though it may not match the precision of today's advanced suspension technologies.

Design and Dimensions

The Opel Ascona's design is a perfect representation of 1970s automotive aesthetics. Its coupe body type, with a length of 4178 mm, width of 1635 mm, and height of 1384 mm, gives it a compact yet elegant profile. The 4-door configuration adds practicality, making it a versatile choice for both daily driving and weekend getaways. The wheelbase of 2432 mm and ground clearance of 127 mm contribute to its stable and balanced handling.

Inside, the Ascona offers a straightforward and functional layout, typical of cars from its era. While it may lack the luxury features of modern vehicles, its simplicity is part of its charm. The car's dimensions and design make it easy to maneuver in urban settings while still providing enough space for passengers and luggage.

Fuel Efficiency and Practicality

One area where the Opel Ascona shows its age is in fuel efficiency. With a combined fuel consumption of 12 liters per 100 km, it is less economical compared to today's vehicles. However, for those who appreciate classic cars, this may be a small price to pay for the joy of owning a piece of automotive history. The car's rear-wheel-drive system and mechanical transmission may also require more maintenance than modern front-wheel-drive vehicles, but they offer a driving experience that is hard to replicate.

Safety and Braking System

Safety features in the Opel Ascona are minimal by today's standards, with no airbags or advanced driver-assistance systems. However, it does come equipped with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, which were standard for the time. While these may not offer the stopping power of modern braking systems, they are adequate for the car's performance capabilities. The absence of modern safety features means that the Ascona is best suited for experienced drivers who are comfortable with its limitations.

Conclusion: A Classic Worth Considering

The Opel Ascona 1.6 MT (68 hp) is a classic car that offers a unique blend of style, simplicity, and driving pleasure. Its modest performance and fuel efficiency may not appeal to everyone, but for enthusiasts of vintage vehicles, it represents a bygone era of automotive design. The car's rear-wheel-drive system, mechanical transmission, and timeless design make it a joy to drive, while its practical 4-door configuration adds a touch of versatility. If you're in the market for a classic coupe that stands out from the crowd, the Opel Ascona is certainly worth considering.

Key Findings

The Opel Ascona 1.6 MT is a classic coupe with a 1.6-liter petrol engine producing 68 horsepower.
It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 18 seconds and has a top speed of 145 km/h.
The car features a rear-wheel-drive system and a 4-speed manual transmission.
Its design is compact and elegant, with a 4-door configuration for added practicality.
Fuel efficiency is modest, with a combined consumption of 12 liters per 100 km.
Safety features are minimal, with front disc brakes and rear drum brakes.
The car's suspension system provides a comfortable ride, though it lacks modern precision.
Maintenance may be more demanding due to its mechanical transmission and rear-wheel-drive system.
The Ascona is best suited for classic car enthusiasts who appreciate its vintage charm.
Its timeless design and driving experience make it a standout choice in the classic car market.