Germany vs West Germany — 1980 vs 1978
| Ascona 400 Rally | Senator 3.0i 24V | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 144 hp | 204 hp |
| Torque | 155 lb-ft | 199 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,410 cc | 2,969 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.2 sec | 7.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 149 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | 15.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,315 lbs | 3,219 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,518 mm | 2,731 mm |
| Length | 4,322 mm | 4,758 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,484 | 151,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $20,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 6/10 |
Two outstanding machines, each with compelling strengths. The 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally excels in lighter weight, greater rarity, stronger collectibility, while the 1978 Opel Senator 3.0i 24V stands out for more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The best advice? Drive both if you can, then follow your instincts.
The 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally and 1978 Opel Senator 3.0i 24V share a manufacturer in Opel, but that's where the similarities get interesting. These two models reveal the versatility and ambition of the Opel brand. The 1978 Opel Senator 3.0i 24V holds a clear advantage in raw power with 204 hp compared to 144 hp, a 60-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 Senator relies on a Inline-6 DOHC 24V with 2,969 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1978 Opel Senator 3.0i 24V edges ahead at 7.5 seconds versus 8.2 seconds. The Opel Ascona carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 904 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,484 units built, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally is considerably scarcer than the Opel Senator's 151,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally commands a significant premium over the 1978 Opel Senator 3.0i 24V, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.