Germany vs Germany — 1975 vs 1980
| Kadett GT/E Coupe | Ascona 400 Rally | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 105 hp | 144 hp |
| Torque | 117 lb-ft | 155 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,897 cc | 2,410 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 10.0 sec | 8.2 sec |
| Top Speed | 115 mph | 124 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 17.5 sec | 16.2 sec |
| Weight | 2,116 lbs | 2,315 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,518 mm | 2,518 mm |
| Length | 4,210 mm | 4,322 mm |
| Units Produced | 18,500 | 2,484 |
| Value (Excellent) | $35,000 | $120,000 |
| Collectibility | 6/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 8/10 |
The 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1975 Opel Kadett GT/E Coupe counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
The 1975 Opel Kadett GT/E Coupe and 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally 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 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally holds a clear advantage in raw power with 144 hp compared to 105 hp, a 39-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Opel Kadett uses a Inline-4 OHC displacing 1,897 cc, while the Opel Ascona relies on a Inline-4 DOHC with 2,410 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally edges ahead at 8.2 seconds versus 10.0 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 Kadett's 18,500 examples. On the collector market, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally commands a significant premium over the 1975 Opel Kadett GT/E Coupe, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1980 Opel Ascona 400 Rally rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.