The Opel Ascona C, launched in August 1981, marked a significant shift for Opel as it was part of General Motors’ J-car project. It was the second front-wheel drive vehicle in Opel’s lineup, following the Kadett D. Manufactured in multiple locations, including Rüsselsheim, Germany, Antwerp, Belgium, São Caetano do Sul, Brazil, and Luton, England, it was sold under different names in various markets, such as the Vauxhall Cavalier in the UK and Chevrolet Monza in Latin America.
Unlike its predecessors, the Ascona C was more of a family car, focusing on space efficiency rather than sporty characteristics. It earned the “Goldenes Lenkrad” (Golden Steering Wheel) award in 1981 and was the best-selling car in West Germany during its early years. The Ascona C was also assembled in South Africa and was sold under GM South Africa until 1986.
The Ascona C underwent two facelifts during its production run, with a notable introduction of a five-door fastback/hatchback model in some markets. All engines in the Ascona C featured SOHC crossflow designs, hydraulic tappets, and a breakerless ignition system.
Key Engine Specs:
- 1.3 N:
- Engine: 1297 cc
- Power: 60 PS (44 kW)
- Torque: 94 Nm (69 lb·ft)
- Top speed: 150 km/h (93 mph)
- 1.3 S:
- Engine: 1297 cc
- Power: 75 PS (55 kW)
- Torque: 101 Nm (74 lb·ft)
- Top speed: 160 km/h (99 mph)
- 1.6 N:
- Engine: 1598 cc
- Power: 75 PS (55 kW)
- Torque: 123 Nm (91 lb·ft)
- Top speed: 160 km/h (99 mph)
- 1.6 S:
- Engine: 1598 cc
- Power: 90 PS (66 kW)
- Torque: 126 Nm (93 lb·ft)
- Top speed: 170 km/h (106 mph)
- 1.8 N:
- Engine: 1796 cc
- Power: 84 PS (62 kW)
- Torque: 143 Nm (105 lb·ft)
- Top speed: 168 km/h (104 mph)
- 1.8 E:
- Engine: 1796 cc
- Power: 115 PS (85 kW)
- Torque: 151 Nm (111 lb·ft)
- Top speed: 187 km/h (116 mph)
- 2.0 E:
- Engine: 1998 cc
- Power: 115 PS (85 kW)
- Torque: 175 Nm (129 lb·ft)
- Top speed: 187 km/h (116 mph)
- 1.6 D (Diesel):
- Engine: 1598 cc
- Power: 54 PS (40 kW)
- Torque: 96 Nm (71 lb·ft)
- Top speed: 143 km/h (89 mph)
The Ascona C, which was in production until 1988, was a versatile car offering several options for consumers, from family-oriented sedans to sportier variants like the GTE model. It became an iconic model for Opel, known for its reliability and practicality.
