Opel Ascona 1975–1981 car dimensions: 4321 mm long, 1670 mm wide and 1380 mm high. Braked towing is 1,200 kg.
The cabin seats five with improved space over the prior generation thanks to a longer wheelbase and larger glass areas for better visibility. A radio was available as an option, and air conditioning could be ordered as an extra on higher grades. No driver assistance systems of any kind were fitted.
The boot holds 380 litres with the rear seats in place. The rear seats can be folded to enlarge the load area when needed.
Payload sits between 405 and 440 kg depending on the exact model. Braked towing capacity ranges from 1000 to 1300 kg, with unbraked around 500 kg. The car suits everyday family and light work use with its straightforward rear-drive layout.
The cabin feels roomier than the previous generation thanks to a longer wheelbase and wider body, with extra leg and shoulder space. Seats are fully foam-padded with strong side support and good damping. Large glass areas give a bright, open feel and clear all-round view. Aerodynamic tweaks cut wind noise for quieter travel.
Petrol engines 1.2-2.4 litres. 2.0 diesel from 1978
Oil and filter change every 15 000 km or 12 months
Dual-circuit brakes with servo, front discs, rear drums
Seat belts standard. laminated glass no-cost option from 1976
Crash-protected tank behind rear seats
Engines run on normal or super petrol according to version. a 2.0 diesel joined the range in 1978 mainly for export markets with tax advantages.
Routine care centres on oil and filter changes at 15 000 km or yearly intervals. Front suspension is maintenance-free double wishbones.
Safety kit comprises dual-circuit servo brakes, front discs and rear drums, standard seat belts and a tank placed safely behind the rear seat. Chassis tuning improves both active and passive protection. No airbags or ABS appear in the record.
The rear-drive layout stays simple to work on. Watch for rust, a common issue on these cars, especially if a steel sunroof is fitted.
Length 4321 mm, Width 1670 mm, Height 1380 mm, Wheelbase 2518 mm (Ascona 1975–1981)
Sources: manufacturer data, Adam Opel AG, Pkw-Modellprogramm 1899–1995 , Ascona B sheet, Kerb weight only as 895–1020 kg, Displacement, power, torque and top speed only per engine.