Germany vs West Germany — 1980 vs 1964
| Ascona 400 Rally | Admiral 2.8 V8 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 144 hp | 125 hp |
| Torque | 155 lb-ft | 161 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,410 cc | 2,784 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.2 sec | 13.5 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 106 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | 19.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,315 lbs | 2,976 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,518 mm | 2,845 mm |
| Length | 4,322 mm | 4,837 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,484 | 55,876 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $25,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 4/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 7/10 |
The 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally holds an edge across most measurable criteria, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. That said, the 1964 Opel Admiral 2.8 V8 brings better value and remains a compelling choice for enthusiasts who value Opel heritage. The right pick depends on whether you prioritize specifications or the intangible qualities that make a car truly special.
The 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally and 1964 Opel Admiral 2.8 V8 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. On paper, the two are remarkably close in power output, with the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally producing 144 hp and the 1964 Opel Admiral 2.8 V8 delivering 125 hp. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Opel Ascona uses a Inline-4 DOHC displacing 2,410 cc, while the Opel Admiral relies on a V8 OHV with 2,784 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally edges ahead at 8.2 seconds versus 13.5 seconds. The Opel Ascona carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 661 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 Admiral's 55,876 examples. On the collector market, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally commands a significant premium over the 1964 Opel Admiral 2.8 V8, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.