Germany vs Germany — 1980 vs 1968
| Ascona 400 Rally | GT 1900 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 144 hp | 90 hp |
| Torque | 155 lb-ft | 109 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,410 cc | 1,897 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 8.2 sec | 9.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 124 mph | 115 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 16.2 sec | 17.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,315 lbs | 2,050 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,518 mm | 2,400 mm |
| Length | 4,322 mm | 4,145 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,484 | 103,373 |
| Original MSRP | — | $3,395 |
| Value (Excellent) | $120,000 | $35,000 |
| Collectibility | 8/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 8/10 | 6/10 |
On balance, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally makes a stronger case on paper with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. However, the 1968 Opel GT 1900 counters with lighter weight, better value, and its appeal extends beyond mere numbers. Choose the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally for outright capability, or the 1968 Opel GT 1900 for a more distinctive ownership experience.
Opel has long offered a diverse lineup, and comparing the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally with the 1968 Opel GT 1900 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 90 hp, a 54-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 GT relies on a Inline-4 with 1,897 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally edges ahead at 8.2 seconds versus 9.2 seconds. The Opel GT carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 265 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 GT's 103,373 examples. On the collector market, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally commands a significant premium over the 1968 Opel GT 1900, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.