Models & Variants of Opel Ascona C
The Opel Ascona C (1981-1988) represented a significant chapter in Opel's family car history, known for its reliability, excellent handling, and comfort. Despite its relatively short production run, the Ascona C line featured several distinct variations to suit different customer needs.
| Body Style | Variants | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Two-Door Sedan | Base, L, Berlina, SR, GT | Sporty profile, economical entry model | Singles, couples, sport enthusiasts |
| Four-Door Sedan | Base, L, GL, Berlina, SR | Practical design, spacious interior | Families, business use |
| Five-Door Hatchback | Base, L, GL, Berlina, SR | Versatile cargo capacity, modern styling | Active families, utility-focused users |
| Manta B (Related) | 4WD Wagon | Four-wheel drive, enhanced traction | All-weather driving, rural areas |
Ascona SR
The Ascona SR represented the sportier trim level with enhanced performance features including upgraded suspension, sport seats, and distinctive badging.
Key appeal: Performance-oriented driving experience with everyday practicality
Ascona GT
The premium Ascona GT offered a more luxurious package with additional features like alloy wheels, front fog lights, and often the most powerful engine options.
Key appeal: Blend of sportiness and luxury with top-tier equipment
Standard Ascona
The base and mid-range Ascona models focused on reliability and value, offering the renowned German engineering at more accessible price points.
Key appeal: Excellent build quality and comfort without premium pricing
Historical Note: The Ascona C was the last rear-wheel-drive Ascona before Opel switched to front-wheel drive for its successor model, the Vectra. This makes the Ascona C particularly valued by driving enthusiasts who appreciate the balanced handling characteristics of RWD vehicles.
Specifications of Opel Ascona C
The Opel Ascona C offered various configurations with different specifications between the sedan and hatchback variants, though they shared many core components.
| Specification | Four-Door Sedan | Five-Door Hatchback |
|---|---|---|
| Length | 4,240 mm | 4,150 mm |
| Width | 1,620 mm | 1,620 mm |
| Height | 1,380 mm | 1,380 mm |
| Wheelbase | 2,563 mm | 2,563 mm |
| Engine Options | 1.3L I4 (Petrol), 1.6L I4 (Petrol), 1.3L I4 (Diesel) | |
| Power Output (Petrol) | 75-115 PS | |
| Power Output (Diesel) | 50-75 PS | |
| Maximum Torque | 85-112 Nm | |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual (standard), 4-speed automatic (optional) | |
| Drivetrain | Front engine, rear-wheel drive | |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 liters | |
Chassis and Suspension
- Front Suspension
MacPherson strut design offering a good balance of comfort and handling, with anti-roll bar for improved stability during cornering
- Rear Suspension
Live axle with coil springs, providing durability and load-carrying capability while maintaining ride comfort
- Braking System
Ventilated front disc brakes for improved heat dissipation and stopping power, paired with rear drum brakes for reliability and easy maintenance
Performance Insight: The 1.6L engine with electronic fuel injection (available in later SR and GT models) offered the best balance of performance and economy, making it the preferred choice for enthusiasts seeking responsive driving without sacrificing everyday usability.
Maintenance Guide for Opel Ascona C
Proper maintenance is essential for preserving the reliability and longevity of your Opel Ascona C. Following a comprehensive maintenance schedule will ensure optimal performance throughout the vehicle's life.
Engine Care
- Change engine oil and filter every 5,000-7,500 km or 6 months
- Replace air filter annually or every 15,000 km
- Check and adjust spark plug gap every 15,000 km
- Replace spark plugs every 30,000 km
- Check and adjust ignition timing every 15,000 km
Transmission System
- Check fluid levels monthly
- Replace automatic transmission fluid every 60,000 km
- Change manual transmission fluid every 80,000 km
- Inspect for grinding, slipping, or shifting difficulties
- Check clutch adjustment (manual) annually
Braking System
- Inspect brake pads every 10,000 km
- Replace brake fluid every 2 years
- Check brake rotors for wear and warping
- Lubricate brake calipers annually
- Test brake system performance regularly
Suspension & Steering
- Inspect shock absorbers/struts for leaks annually
- Check for unusual noises or bouncing
- Test steering response and alignment annually
- Lubricate steering components every 15,000 km
- Inspect bushings and joints for wear
Electrical System
- Clean battery terminals quarterly
- Test battery voltage every 6 months
- Inspect wiring harness for damage
- Check all lights and signals monthly
- Inspect alternator belt tension quarterly
Body & Chassis
- Inspect for rust or corrosion quarterly
- Clean and wax body every 3 months
- Check door seals and weatherstripping
- Lubricate door hinges and locks biannually
- Inspect chassis for structural integrity annually
Tires & Wheels
- Check tire pressure monthly
- Rotate tires every 10,000 km
- Inspect tread depth quarterly
- Check wheel alignment annually
- Balance wheels as needed
Fluid Management
- Check coolant level weekly
- Flush cooling system every 2 years
- Top up power steering fluid as needed
- Maintain windshield washer fluid levels
- Inspect for fluid leaks regularly
Maintenance Warning: Given the age of Ascona C vehicles (over 30 years), pay special attention to rubber components (hoses, belts, seals) which deteriorate with time regardless of mileage. These should be inspected thoroughly during maintenance and replaced preventatively even if they appear functional.
How to Choose the Right Opel Ascona C
Whether you're considering an Opel Ascona C as a classic car purchase, for business use, or as a restoration project, these selection criteria will help you make an informed decision.
Identify Your Needs
- Determine if you need a standard family car, sport model, or luxury trim
- Consider passenger capacity requirements (2-door vs 4-door)
- Assess cargo needs (sedan vs hatchback/wagon)
- Evaluate typical driving conditions (urban vs rural)
Model Selection
- 2-door sedan: Most common, sportier appearance
- 4-door sedan: Best for family use, easy rear access
- 3-door hatchback: Good balance of style and utility
- 5-door wagon: Maximum cargo space and versatility
- Consider the 1988 Opel Ascona for the most refined version
Key Evaluation Points
| Consideration | What to Look For | Why It Matters |
|---|---|---|
| Vehicle Age | Balance between affordability and condition | Older models may require more maintenance but cost less initially |
| Rust Inspection | Check wheel arches, floor pans, trunk, door bottoms | Rust is the primary killer of Ascona C models |
| Engine Condition | Smooth operation, no smoke, consistent idle | Engine rebuilds are expensive compared to vehicle value |
| Parts Availability | Research supplier network for specific model | Some variants have better parts availability than others |
| Service History | Documentation of regular maintenance | Well-maintained examples will have fewer hidden issues |
| Originality | Period-correct components vs. modifications | Original examples typically hold better value |
Buyer's Tip: The most desirable Ascona C models today are the late-production Ascona GT and Ascona SR variants with fuel injection. These offer the best performance, equipment levels, and generally received better care from original owners, resulting in better-preserved examples.
DIY Maintenance and Repairs for Opel Ascona C
The Opel Ascona C is an excellent platform for DIY maintenance thanks to its straightforward design and accessible components. Here are step-by-step guides for common maintenance tasks:
Engine Oil Change
- Warm up the engine to operating temperature to ensure oil flows freely, then park on level ground or use ramps/jack stands.
- Locate the oil drain plug on the bottom of the oil pan. Position an oil catch container beneath it, then loosen the plug with an appropriate wrench.
- Allow oil to drain completely (15-20 minutes), then remove the old oil filter by turning counterclockwise with a filter wrench.
- Apply a thin film of clean oil to the gasket of the new filter. Install the new filter hand-tight only - no tools needed.
- Clean the drain plug and its seating area, then reinstall the plug and tighten to specification (typically 25-30 Nm).
- Using a funnel, add the specified amount of oil (typically 4-4.5 liters) of the correct grade (10W-40 or 15W-40 for most Ascona C engines).
- Start the engine, check for leaks, and verify the oil level with the dipstick after allowing the engine to run for a minute.
Air Filter Replacement
- Locate the air filter housing, typically on the driver's side of the engine bay - a rectangular black plastic box.
- Unlock the clips or remove the screws securing the air filter housing cover.
- Remove the old filter, noting its orientation and how it sits in the housing.
- Clean the inside of the air filter housing with a damp cloth to remove dust and debris.
- Install the new filter in the same orientation as the old one, ensuring it seats properly in the housing.
- Reattach the housing cover and secure the clips or screws.
Spark Plug Replacement
- Work with a cool engine to prevent damage to threads in the cylinder head.
- Remove one spark plug wire at a time by pulling on the boot (not the wire itself) with a gentle twisting motion.
- Use a spark plug socket (typically 21mm) with extension and ratchet to remove the old spark plug.
- Inspect the old plug's condition - light tan color indicates good engine health; black sooty deposits suggest a rich mixture.
- Set the gap on the new spark plug to specification (typically 0.7-0.8mm) using a feeler gauge.
- Apply a small amount of anti-seize compound to the threads (not the electrodes) if using non-coated plugs.
- Thread the new plug by hand initially to prevent cross-threading, then tighten with a socket to specification (typically 25-30 Nm).
- Reattach the spark plug wire, ensuring it clicks securely onto the plug.
- Repeat the process for remaining plugs, working on one at a time to avoid mixing up the firing order.
Safety Warning: Always disconnect the battery's negative terminal before performing electrical work or repairs that might cause accidental shorts. When working under the vehicle, ensure it is properly supported with jack stands - never rely solely on a jack.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Opel Ascona C is generally reliable, but several common issues have emerged over time:
- Electrical System Issues: Alternator charging problems, wiring harness deterioration, and dashboard electrical failures
- Engine Problems: Oil leaks from valve cover and oil pan gaskets, starter motor failures, and timing chain noise
- Fuel System Problems: Fuel pump failures (especially in models with higher mileage), carburetor flooding issues, and fuel line corrosion
- Bodywork Deterioration: Rust in wheel arches, floor pans, and lower door edges, particularly in vehicles from humid regions
- Suspension Wear: Deteriorated bushings and ball joints causing excessive play in the steering and suspension
The timing chain on the Opel Ascona C was designed as a lifetime component, but reality shows that preventative replacement is advisable:
- The ideal interval is approximately 120,000-150,000 km (75,000-90,000 miles)
- Listen for a characteristic rattling noise from the front of the engine, especially when cold, which indicates chain stretch
- Consider preventative replacement during other major engine work to avoid costly future repairs
- If the engine has been maintained with regular oil changes, the timing chain typically lasts longer
- Always replace the tensioner and guides when replacing the timing chain
With proper maintenance, an Opel Ascona C can provide exceptional longevity:
- The robust mechanical design allows for 300,000+ km (185,000+ miles) with proper maintenance
- Engine longevity is typically excellent, with many examples still running on original engines
- Bodily longevity is more dependent on climate and storage conditions than mechanical factors
- Regular maintenance significantly extends vehicle life - documented service history is a strong predictor of remaining lifespan
- As classic vehicles, many surviving Ascona C models today have been preserved beyond their original design lifespan
The Opel Ascona C represents an excellent choice for specific buyers:
- Classic Car Enthusiasts: Increasingly appreciated for its clean 1980s design and representation of a transitional era in European car design
- Budget-Conscious Buyers: Still relatively affordable compared to other classic vehicles of the same era
- DIY Mechanics: Simple design with good parts availability makes it ideal for home maintenance
- Practical Classic: More usable as everyday transportation than many classics due to its reliability and comfort
- Investment Potential: Values have begun to appreciate, particularly for well-preserved SR and GT models
For modern daily transportation needs, newer vehicles offer better safety features and fuel efficiency, but as a weekend classic or enthusiast vehicle, the Ascona C offers excellent value and driving enjoyment.