Germany vs Germany — 1980 vs 1994
| Ascona 400 Rally | Tigra 1.6 16V | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 144 hp | 106 hp |
| Torque | 155 lb-ft | 111 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,410 cc | 1,598 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.2 sec | 9.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 121 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | 17.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,315 lbs | 2,205 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,518 mm | 2,443 mm |
| Length | 4,322 mm | 3,921 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,484 | 252,641 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $8,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 3/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 4/10 |
On balance, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1994 Opel Tigra 1.6 16V counters with better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally for outright capability, or the 1994 Opel Tigra 1.6 16V for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Opel has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally with the 1994 Opel Tigra 1.6 16V highlights the breadth of the marque's engineering philosophy. The 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally holds a clear advantage in raw power with 144 hp compared to 106 hp, a 38-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Opel Ascona uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 2,410 cc, while the Opel Tigra relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16V with 1,598 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally edges ahead at 8.2 seconds versus 9.6 seconds. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,484 units built, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally is considerably scarcer than the Opel Tigra's 252,641 examples. On the collector market, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally commands a significant premium over the 1994 Opel Tigra 1.6 16V, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.